President Donald Trump’s recent push for Republicans to redraw U.S. House districts ahead of the 2024 elections has led to a wave of mid-decade gerrymandering across both political lines.

With Democrats only needing to flip three seats to reclaim control of the House, Trump's call aims to mitigate historical trends where the incumbent president's party typically loses ground during mid-term elections.

States Responding to Redistricting

Texas — Following Trump’s appeal, Republican Governor Greg Abbott signed a revised U.S. House map on August 29, aiming to aid the GOP in capturing five additional seats next year. This new map, however, is currently facing legal challenges.

California — In response, the first major Democrat-led strategy includes a new U.S. House map to potentially flip five seats, departing from districts established post-2020 census by an independent commission. The initiative requires voter approval in a November election.

Missouri — On September 28, Governor Mike Kehoe sanctioned a new congressional map designed to help win back an additional seat by altering a Democratic stronghold in Kansas City, despite ongoing lawsuits from opponents.

North Carolina — This state’s Republican assembly recently beckoned new district adjustments, with implications to give Republicans an extra seat by reconfiguring a Democratic district. Legal challenges are again anticipated in this context.

Utah — Gaining approval for revised districts on October 6 post a judicial rebuke, Utah's Republican-led legislature aims to create a more competitive landscape for Democrats, while currently holding all four congressional seats.

States Initiating Redistricting Sessions

Various states have taken up initiatives for redistricting sessions. Indiana’s Governor Mike Braun has called for a special session on November 3, while Virginia's Democratic legislature is in session for potential adjustments. Louisiana is also meeting in a special session aimed at postponing the upcoming primary dates to enhance the redistricting timeline.

As these legislative moves gain momentum, both Republicans and Democrats are strategically positioning their party for not just the upcoming elections, but controlling the House in the foreseeable future.