Missouri and Maryland Supreme Courts Block New Congressional Maps, Favor Democrats
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Missouri's high court halted a Republican-drawn congressional map for the November election, while Maryland's supreme court allowed a redistricting amendment to appear on the ballot, both rulings benefiting Democratic interests.
The Missouri Supreme Court issued a unanimous order preventing the use of a newly drawn Republican congressional map for the upcoming November election, directing Secretary of State Denny Hoskins to place the 2022 map on the ballot. The court affirmed that the 2022 boundaries remain in effect for the 2026 general election, a decision that could affect the partisan balance in seven of the state’s eight districts.
Republican officials said they will explore legal options, with the National Republican Congressional Committee stating the party followed the law and expects a successful outcome. Missouri Attorney General Catherine Hanaway announced plans to seek relief from the U.S. Supreme Court, describing the ruling as unprecedented.
In Maryland, the state’s highest court ruled that a proposed constitutional amendment to allow Democrats to redraw congressional districts ahead of the 2028 elections can be placed on the November ballot, though it ordered the amendment’s language to be revised for clarity. The decision supports Democratic efforts to reshape all eight congressional districts, where they currently hold seven seats.
John Bisognano, president of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, called the Maryland ruling a victory for democracy, noting that voters will have a direct say on redistricting. The amendment follows a special legislative session that approved the measure after earlier attempts to modify the map stalled in the state Senate.