Texas Requests Supreme Court Review After Federal Judges Block GOP-Backed Congressional Map

AUSTIN, Texas — November 22, 2025 — Texas has filed an emergency petition with the U.S. Supreme Court following a federal court ruling that blocked a congressional redistricting map supported by former President Donald Trump. The map was designed to bolster Republican chances by potentially adding five seats to the party’s delegation in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The legal challenge arises after a three-judge panel of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas ruled against the state’s proposed map earlier this month. The judges found that the redistricting plan violated the Voting Rights Act by diluting the voting power of minority communities, according to court documents.

Texas officials argue that the map complies with legal standards and that the federal court’s decision undermines the state’s authority to draw its own congressional districts. The emergency petition asks the Supreme Court to intervene and allow the map to be used in upcoming elections.

The contested map was drawn following the 2020 Census and was intended to reflect population shifts while maintaining Republican advantages. The plan has been a focal point of political debate, with critics saying it suppresses minority representation and supporters asserting it fairly represents Texas’ electorate.

The federal judges’ ruling cited concerns that the map reduces the influence of Hispanic voters in certain districts, which could violate protections under the Voting Rights Act. The court ordered Texas to submit a new map that remedies these issues before the next election cycle.

Texas’ appeal to the Supreme Court comes amid a broader national dispute over redistricting and voting rights, with several states facing similar legal challenges. The Supreme Court’s decision on whether to hear the case could have significant implications for redistricting efforts nationwide.

The state’s petition emphasizes the urgency of the matter, noting that delays in finalizing congressional districts could disrupt candidate filing deadlines and election preparations. Texas officials contend that the federal court’s intervention disrupts the traditional state role in managing elections.

Legal experts say the Supreme Court’s involvement could hinge on the justices’ willingness to revisit precedents related to the Voting Rights Act and federal oversight of redistricting. The court has previously ruled on similar cases, balancing state interests with protections against racial discrimination in voting.

As the case progresses, Texas lawmakers and political groups remain divided over the map’s impact. Republican leaders have praised the plan for reflecting Texas’ growing population and political landscape, while Democrats and civil rights organizations have criticized it as an attempt to entrench partisan power.

The Supreme Court has not yet indicated whether it will grant the emergency petition. If the court declines to intervene, Texas will be required to revise its congressional districts in accordance with the federal court’s ruling.

The outcome of this case will be closely watched as it may influence redistricting battles in other states and shape the political balance of the House of Representatives in future elections.