How Mississippi politicians, advocates reacted to redistricting cancelation

Mississippi Governor Tate Reeves canceled a planned special legislative session on May 13, 2026, which was intended to redraw the state’s Supreme Court districts. The decision followed a court ruling that Mississippi did not need to adjust those districts, as previously argued by state officials. The cancellation came after Reeves initially called the session in late April, citing a U.S. Supreme Court decision on redistricting. Republican leaders, including State Auditor Shad White, criticized the move, insisting the Legislature should instead focus on redrawing Mississippi’s U.S. House map to weaken Democratic Rep. Bennie Thompson’s district. White, who is running for another statewide office in 2027, called redistricting his top priority and vowed to target Thompson if elected governor. Commissioner of Agriculture Andy Gipson, also a gubernatorial candidate, echoed the call, framing it as part of his long-standing opposition to Thompson. The Mississippi Legislative Black Caucus expressed caution, emphasizing the need for transparency and protections for Black voting power amid redistricting efforts. The group had previously opposed the special session, viewing it as a potential threat to fair representation. Meanwhile, Mississippi House Speaker Jason White has not publicly commented on the cancellation. The cancellation left some Republican officials frustrated, as they had pushed for a shift in focus toward the U.S. House map. The state’s Supreme Court districts were the original target, but the court’s ruling made the session unnecessary. Reeves’ decision now leaves open the possibility of future redistricting efforts, particularly for congressional maps, as political factions continue to debate the issue.