A Utah judge ruled that the state's congressional district map, drawn by Republicans, illegally circumvented voter-approved safeguards against partisan gerrymandering. The 2021 map divided Salt Lake County, a Democratic area, into heavily Republican districts. The judge declared the map unlawful due to the legislature's disregard for the independent commission established by voters. New maps must be drawn before the 2026 elections, though Republican appeals could delay this. This ruling impacts the GOP's slim House majority and could influence redistricting efforts in other states, potentially shifting the balance of power in Congress.

Prepared by Lauren Mitchell and reviewed by editorial team.