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Fact check: Which states have undergone significant redistricting changes since 2016?

Checked on August 7, 2025

1. Summary of the results

Based on the analyses provided, several states have undergone significant redistricting changes since 2016:

Texas emerges as the most prominent example, with Republicans moving to redraw their congressional map mid-decade [1]. Governor Greg Abbott called a special session to facilitate these redistricting efforts [2], which could impact the 2026 midterm elections [1].

Pennsylvania represents another clear case, where the legislative-drawn map was thrown out and replaced by the state Supreme Court in 2018 [1].

Additional states mentioned include California, New York, Illinois, and Maryland as being involved in redistricting efforts [3]. However, some of these states like Illinois and Maryland have already redrawn their maps or are facing limitations due to existing laws or court decisions [3].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The analyses reveal important context about reactive redistricting strategies. California and New York are considering mid-decade redistricting specifically in response to Texas' actions [3] [4], suggesting a strategic political chess game rather than routine redistricting.

The sources highlight legal complexities and challenges involved in the redistricting process [5], indicating that not all proposed changes may come to fruition. This suggests that Democratic states may retaliate against Republican gerrymandering efforts, but they face legal hurdles in doing so [4].

Political parties benefit differently from these redistricting efforts:

  • Republican leadership in Texas benefits from redrawing maps to potentially secure more favorable districts
  • Democratic leadership in California and New York would benefit from counter-gerrymandering efforts to offset Republican gains

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question appears neutral and factual, asking for information about redistricting changes since 2016. However, the question lacks specificity about the type of redistricting changes being referenced - whether routine post-census redistricting, court-ordered changes, or mid-decade political redistricting.

The analyses suggest that mid-decade redistricting is relatively unusual and politically motivated, which adds important context that the original question doesn't capture. The question also doesn't distinguish between completed redistricting changes versus proposed or ongoing efforts, which creates ambiguity in determining which states have actually "undergone" changes versus those merely considering them.

Want to dive deeper?
What are the most significant redistricting changes in the 2024 election?
How has redistricting affected minority representation in state legislatures since 2016?
Which states have implemented independent redistricting commissions to reduce gerrymandering?
What role did the 2019 Supreme Court ruling play in shaping redistricting practices?
How do redistricting changes impact the balance of power in the US House of Representatives?