Two lawsuits in Wisconsin aim to change congressional district maps that currently favor Republicans. The resolution of these cases is expected after the 2026 midterms. Lawyers in one case argued recently that there’s time to implement new maps for the November elections, but a judge signaled that the timeline will be respected.
In Indiana, Republican leaders have turned down former President Trump’s calls to redraw congressional boundaries, illustrating a broader struggle within the party as they seek to maintain their slim majority in the House.
Julie Zuckerbrod, a lawyer for Democrats in Wisconsin, requested a decision by early March to allow for new maps. However, Judge Julie Genovese indicated that the court would deliberate at its own pace. Meanwhile, Republican attorneys preferred delaying any potential trial until March 2027, arguing that changes before the 2026 election could be unfair.
Both lawsuits are being reviewed by newly created three-judge panels, a process initiated by a law established in 2011. The Wisconsin Supreme Court previously mandated that these cases be heard in such a manner, despite opposition from Republicans.
The coalition of Wisconsin business leaders claims that the current maps are unconstitutional due to significant gerrymandering, pointing to recent statistics: candidates in the eight districts have won by an average of 30 percentage points. “In a state evenly split between Democrats and Republicans, it’s troubling that one party dominates the House representation,” they argue.
Historically, in 2010, Democrats held five congressional seats compared to three for Republicans. Today, Republicans hold six of the eight seats, with only two being competitive—highlighting a shift in political dynamics in the past decade. The current maps, drawn in 2011, were initially endorsed by a court leaning conservative, and the U.S. Supreme Court did not block them from being used.
Democrats are particularly focused on the third congressional district, once held by Democrat Ron Kind, and the first district in southeastern Wisconsin. These districts have the potential to be more competitive in upcoming elections.
As these cases unfold, they shed light on the ongoing national conversation about redistricting and its impact on democracy. Voter sentiments reflect growing awareness of gerrymandering’s effects, making these lawsuits crucial in shaping fair political representation.
For more in-depth information on gerrymandering and its implications, you can visit The Brennan Center.
