As state courts across the U.S. prepare to address gerrymandering issues, the fate of newly drawn congressional maps remains uncertain. Following the passage of a gerrymandered congressional map in Missouri, opponents have gathered over 300,000 signatures to push for a statewide referendum to overturn this map. Despite the signatures, state officials plan to proceed with the current map while legal challenges unfold. Richard von Glahn, a progressive activist, emphasizes the need for litigation to uphold constitutional rights regarding this matter. The Supreme Court's recent decisions have significantly limited federal oversight of gerrymandered maps, shifting the responsibility to state courts. As congressional districts are redrawn in preparation for the 2026 midterm elections, state judges will play a crucial role in evaluating these maps, which often favor one political party over another. Historically, congressional maps are redrawn every decade following the census, but the recent trend of partisan gerrymandering has prompted legal scrutiny. Recent Supreme Court rulings have allowed states like Texas to implement new maps designed to enhance Republican representation, while cases against maps in California have yet to reach a final decision. The Supreme Court has expressed reluctance to become involved in gerrymandering cases, leaving state courts to interpret their constitutions, which may offer protections against partisan manipulation. Many state constitutions contain language that could be interpreted to limit gerrymandering practices, and at least 10 state supreme courts have recognized their authority to adjudicate cases involving partisan gerrymandering. In Missouri, for example, courts may soon rule on whether a referendum on the new map is permissible. The map is intended to challenge the political standing of Democratic U.S. Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, who has held his seat for two decades. In addition to Missouri, states like California, North Carolina, Ohio, and Texas have also adopted new congressional maps this year. Some states, including Florida and Virginia, are still considering potential changes to their maps. Meanwhile, legal challenges are expected to persist, particularly in states like New York and Ohio, where courts have previously found issues with partisan gerrymandering. As the landscape of congressional mapping continues to evolve, state courts will remain central to determining the legality and fairness of these new districts.