The Wisconsin Supreme Court announced on Wednesday that it will not hear two lawsuits challenging the state’s current congressional district maps ahead of the upcoming 2026 midterm elections.
The court issued its decision without providing any explanation. The lawsuits had sought to alter the existing congressional maps, which some believe could shift the competitiveness of certain districts. The ruling marks the second consecutive year that the court has declined to consider efforts to redraw the maps.
Earlier decisions by the court resulted in changes to the state’s legislative districts, which led to noticeable shifts in the makeup of the state legislature following the last election. Based on that precedent, the petitioners in these cases had hoped the court would now turn its attention to the congressional boundaries as well.
Currently, six of the state’s eight congressional seats are held by one political party, while only two districts are regarded as competitive. Advocates for redrawing the maps argued that changes could bring greater balance and fairness to federal elections in the state.
The two petitions were submitted by different legal groups, one on behalf of candidates and political organizations, and the other representing state voters. Both groups claimed the existing maps reduce competitiveness and do not reflect the state’s overall voter distribution.
The Wisconsin Supreme Court maintains a narrow majority favoring one judicial philosophy, but that did not sway the decision to take up the case. With the court declining to intervene, the existing congressional maps are expected to remain in place for the next election cycle.
Supporters of redistricting reform expressed disappointment with the decision, arguing that fair representation at the national level remains a key issue for voters across the state.