Trump's Redistricting Push Hits 2 Setbacks in Alabama, South Carolina
Updated
Updated · Reuters · May 26
Trump's Redistricting Push Hits 2 Setbacks in Alabama, South Carolina
24 articles · Updated · Reuters · May 26
South Carolina senators shelved a GOP congressional map after early voting began, preserving James Clyburn's district as tens of thousands of primary ballots were already cast.
A three-judge federal panel in Alabama separately barred Republicans from using a new map for 2026, saying it intentionally discriminated against Black voters and ordering the state to keep a map with 2 sizable Black districts.
The South Carolina revolt was a rare break with Trump: several Republicans joined Democrats after Governor Henry McMaster called lawmakers back, and concerns grew that changing lines mid-election would not survive court review.
Alabama officials said they will appeal to the Supreme Court, even after the same panel again found the map unlawful following the high court's April ruling that made race-based redistricting challenges harder.
The twin setbacks slow a broader Republican push across Southern states to redraw House maps before November's midterms as the party tries to protect its narrow majority.
As courts block voting maps mid-election, how can states ensure a fair process for voters?
Black Representation at Risk: South Carolina and Alabama Redistricting Battles Set Stage for 2026 Midterm Power Struggle
Overview
In May 2026, major redistricting battles unfolded in South Carolina and Alabama, exposing deep tensions between state legislatures, federal courts, and national political leaders. The South Carolina Senate, controlled by Republicans, rejected a new congressional map after weeks of heated debate, marking a rare internal rebuke of former President Donald Trump. This decision followed a special legislative session focused on redistricting and drew sharp contrasts with the more orderly process after the 2020 census. These events highlight how drawing electoral maps remains highly contentious and has a significant impact on political representation across the country.