Why gerrymandering matters in the 2026 US midterm elections

Gerrymandering has become an important factor in the 2026 US House elections as Republican- and Democratic-led states redraw congressional boundaries outside the usual post-census cycle to improve their chances. The new maps may not guarantee victory, but by “packing” or “cracking” voters they can reduce the number of competitive districts, influence control of the House and intensify legal fights over partisan advantage and minority voting rights.