The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais altered Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. 

The decision could upend American politics and hold sweeping consequences for how states and local governments draw district lines at all levels of government, from Congress to school boards.

What does that mean for this year’s midterms, as well as future elections?

In Episode 27, you’ll hear from Jonathan Shorman, democracy reporter for States Newsroom’s D.C. Bureau. From lawmakers scrambling now to redraw congressional maps to the pause of Louisiana’s U.S. House primaries, Shorman has been watching how the states are reacting to the decision. 

Then, Professor Rick Hasen unpacks how this could re-shape future elections, and what would need to happen to prevent even more drastic changes. Hasen is an expert on election law and teaches at UCLA School of Law.

Finally, Evening Wrap newsletter author Danielle Gaines shares the top stories she’s watching.

Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Stories From The States composed by David Singer.

Click here for the full transcript: 

Relevant reading from States Newsroom outlets and partners: 

Got questions? An episode idea? Email us at [email protected]

Photo: A crowd fills the Senate State and Local Government Committee meeting on May 6, 2026, to protest against legislative maps that split Memphis from one into three districts. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)