These 2 Supreme Court Cases May Affect Future Elections

The Supreme Court is considering two cases that could significantly impact the 2026 midterm elections. One case, Louisiana v. Callais, addresses whether mandating race-based congressional maps violates the Voting Rights Act and the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments. Lower courts had ordered Louisiana to create an additional majority-black district, but this decision was challenged by non-minority voters claiming racial discrimination. The Court is examining if the Voting Rights Act is being interpreted to unconstitutionally force the creation of such districts. The other case, Bost v. Illinois Board of Elections, concerns whether a federal candidate has the standing to challenge state laws that allow mail-in ballots to be counted after election day. Representative Mike Bost argues that such laws are illegal, could cost him the election, and force him to incur extra campaign expenses. The Court is debating whether candidates can challenge election rules before an election occurs, especially if the potential harm is not immediately evident. The timing of these rulings is crucial due to the Purcell doctrine, which discourages major election-related decisions close to an election. A ruling on the race-based redistricting case before state primaries could lead to redrawn congressional maps, potentially benefiting Republicans. The Bost case's outcome could allow candidates to challenge election laws proactively, with uncertain consequences for election administration. The Supreme Court's decisions in these cases will likely shape the electoral landscape for years to come.