Federal judges in El Paso are weighing whether Texas will use its newly approved congressional maps or revert to the 2021 boundaries ahead of the 2026 election filing period. The outcome will determine the districts candidates must run in, with the filing deadline set for December 8.

The maps, passed during a special session after House Democrats fled the state to block the vote, could give Republicans up to five extra congressional seats. Democrats and civil rights groups claim the maps are racially gerrymandered, while Republicans insist the changes are politically motivated. The case is likely headed to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Republicans are also pursuing legal action against Democrats who left Texas in August, seeking to remove lawmakers like House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu from office for abandoning their duties. Combined, the redistricting and legal battles reflect a broader GOP effort to secure additional House seats ahead of the 2026 midterms.