(Photo by: Sh1pp02, 2022 Kansas United States House of Representatives election by Congressional District, Attribution 4.0 International)

Will Kansas Get A New District Map?

Whether the 2026 midterms will be your first chance to vote or you’re a veteran at the polls, there might be something new awaiting you next year. Republicans in Kansas are leading an effort to redraw election districts, potentially splitting up Johnson County into three districts. This move comes on the heels of the redistricting of Texas and Missouri to gain more Republican representatives.

The most recent redistricting was in 2022 following the United States Census. Lawmakers split Wyandotte County into separate districts in an attempt to replace Sharice Davids, Kansas’ only Democratic representative.

The redrawing of representative district maps requires what is called a special session of the legislature, which is normally called by the governor. The governor of Kansas, Laura Kelly, is a Democrat and will veto the call for a special session. This can be overruled by a two-thirds majority vote, which Republicans hold, and lawmakers can then meet to draw up a new district map.

However, a two-thirds majority will be hard to achieve.There is a concern that the Republican party may face backlash from Johnson County residents if they do attempt to redraw their voting district. Some Republicans have called the move unnecessary and a waste of taxpayer money.

Dividing Johnson County into three districts will likely result in the map being vetoed, which would have to be overridden by a supermajority, and challenged in court if it passes. The Kansas Supreme Court ruled in 2022 that Kansas’ constitution does not prohibit gerrymandering. However, a Kansas Supreme Court justice from that case has now retired, so it is uncertain if the precedent will be upheld.

– Vivien O’Keefe

Discover JCCC’s Study Abroad Program

With spring classes around the corner, don’t forget to consider study abroad as an option. The office of Global Engagement, in COM 201, offers help with choosing different programs, along with understanding requirements and financial aid.

Some of the programs have upcoming deadlines in the next few weeks: Japan (UX & Design)

on Oct. 31, France (Ancient Art to Modern Science)  and Iceland (Sustainability & Geology) on Nov.1. Along with deadlines, a few common requirements include a minimum GPA, being eighteen or older, and a valid U.S. Passport.

For more information from JCCC GEO, students are encouraged to make an appointment, email or follow them on Instagram.

– Israel Montantes