Supreme Court rejects Virginia Democrats' redistricting appeal
The U.S. Supreme Court declined to hear Virginia Democrats' challenge to a new congressional map drawn by a special master.
May 16, 2026
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Source: memeorandum.com
The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday rejected an appeal from Virginia Democrats seeking to overturn a new congressional map that was drawn by a special master after the state's highest court found the previous map unconstitutional.
The decision, issued without comment, leaves in place the map that will be used for the 2022 midterm elections. The map, which was drawn by a special master appointed by the Virginia Supreme Court, is expected to favor Republicans in several districts.
Virginia Democrats had argued that the map was a partisan gerrymander that violated the U.S. Constitution. However, the Supreme Court's refusal to hear the case means the map will stand for the upcoming elections.
β Frequently Asked Questions
Why did the Supreme Court reject the appeal?
The Supreme Court declined to hear the case without comment, which is common for appeals that do not meet the Court's criteria for review.
What happens to the congressional map now?
The map drawn by the special master will remain in effect for the 2022 midterm elections, as the Supreme Court's refusal to hear the appeal leaves the lower court's decision in place.
How does this affect Virginia's congressional districts?
The new map is expected to favor Republicans in several districts, potentially shifting the balance of power in Virginia's congressional delegation.