Federal Court Strikes Down Gerrymandered Texas Maps, Potentially Swinging Five House Seats to Democrats

Federal Court Strikes Down Gerrymandered Texas Maps, Potentially Costing Republicans Five House Seats A three-judge panel in a federal court has ruled that the gerrymandered Texas maps, enacted under pressure from President Donald Trump, are unconstitutional. The decision, handed down on November 18, 2025, could have significant implications for the 2026 midterm elections and the future control of the US House of Representatives. According to court documents, the decision was made in the case of League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) v. Abbott, with the panel ruling that the maps unfairly disenfranchised minority voters. The ruling is seen as a major victory for Democrats, who could potentially gain as many as five House seats as a result. The court's decision was based on an analysis of data provided by the US Census Bureau, which showed that the maps had been drawn to favor Republican candidates. The court found that the maps had been intentionally crafted to dilute the voting power of minority groups, in violation of the Voting Rights Act. The immediate impact of the decision is unclear, but it is expected to be appealed by Republican lawmakers. The US Department of Justice, which had initially approved the maps under the Trump administration, has not commented on the decision. The background to the case dates back to 2024, when President Trump pressured the Texas legislature to redraw the state's congressional maps. The new maps were designed to give Republicans a significant advantage in the state's congressional elections. However, critics argued that the maps were gerrymandered, unfairly favoring Republican candidates at the expense of minority voters. The court's decision marks a significant setback for Republican efforts to maintain control of the US House of Representatives. The 2026 midterm elections are shaping up to be a critical test of the party's strength, and the loss of five House seats could have significant implications for the party's future prospects. As the case is likely to be appealed, the outcome of the decision remains uncertain. However, the ruling has sent shockwaves through the political establishment, with many analysts predicting a significant shift in the balance of power in the US House of Representatives.