Kansas Republicans have abandoned efforts to hold a special legislative session to pass a redistricting plan targeting Congresswoman Sharice Davids (D-KS), the state’s sole Democratic congressional representative. State House Speaker Dan Hawkins (R) announced on Tuesday that he lacked sufficient support to convene the session without approval from Democratic Governor Laura Kelly (D-KS).
“Planning a Special Session is always going to be an uphill battle with multiple agendas, scheduling conflicts, and many unseen factors at play,” Hawkins stated, emphasizing Republicans’ continued interest in discussing redistricting. State Senate President Ty Masterson (R), a gubernatorial candidate, reiterated that redistricting remains a “top priority” for the legislature when it reconvenes in January.
Davids responded on X (formerly Twitter), accusing Republican lawmakers of scheming to suppress Kansas voices and claiming victory in “the first round” of the gerrymandering fight. Masterson countered by vowing to advance redistricting efforts, citing Kansans’ support for a conservative agenda.
The decision delays Kansas’s redistricting process as states like Texas, Missouri, and California push forward with partisan map changes. California voters recently approved measures to create additional Democratic-leaning seats, while Virginia Democrats initiated a special session to expand their congressional influence ahead of the 2026 midterms.
