A crowd fills the Senate Committee on State and Local Government hearing on May 6, 2026, to protest legislative maps dividing Memphis from one to three districts. (Photo: John Partipilo/Tennessee Lookout)
Stories from the States is a weekly podcast from States Newsroom that explores how government decisions impact people and communities across America through personal stories. Listen now wherever you find your podcasts.
The U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Louisiana v. Callais amended Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.
This decision could upend American politics and have far-reaching consequences for the way states and local governments draw district boundaries at all levels of government. from Congress to school boards.
What does this mean for this year’s midterms and future elections?
In episode 27 you will hear Jonathan Shormandemocracy reporter for the DC States Newsroom. From lawmakers trying to redraw congressional maps to the adjournment of the Louisiana House primary, Shorman is watching how states are reacting to the decision.
Then, Professor Rick Hasen explains how this could change the shape of future elections and what would need to happen to prevent even more drastic changes. Hasen is an expert in election law and teaches at the University of California, Los Angeles School of Law.
At last, Evening wrap newsletter writer Danielle Gaines shares the most popular stories she sees.
Episode produced and edited by Mallory Cheng. Music for Tales from the States composed by David Singer.
Crash Here for full transcription:
Relevant reading from States Newsroom websites and partners:
- Tennessee Republicans submit U.S. House map showing Memphis days after SCOTUS rejects Voting Rights Act (Tennessee Viewpoint)
- The Supreme Court’s voting rights ruling aims to transform local government from state bodies to school boards (status line)
- Alabama lawmakers introduce primary bills amid committee protests (Alabama Reflector)
- ‘Killing our vote’: GOP states rush to reapportion black districts after US Supreme Court case (State Newsroom DC)
- Leadership questions arise in the Indiana State Senate after redistricting (Indiana State Capital Chronicle)
Do you have any questions? An idea for an episode? Write to us at: podcast@statesnewsroom.com
This podcast is produced by State Newsrooma nonprofit news network that includes the Ohio Capital Journal and is supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.
