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Sep
12
2025

In the News

Hakeem Jeffries Runs into resistance From Illinois Democrats on Redrawing Congressional Map

Source: Politico Illinois

THE BUZZ

MAP MUTINY: Hakeem Jeffries is running into resistance in Illinois as he pushes Democrats to consider a new congressional map ahead of the midterms.

Secret meeting: The Democratic leader met with members of the Illinois delegation on Tuesday to talk about possible redistricting, according to five people granted anonymity to share details of the discussion. He wants them to keep their options open.

But it’s a hard sell: After a post-2020 Census revision, only three of the state’s 17 congressional districts are represented by Republicans. Some Illinois leaders worry a remap could jeopardize some Democratic seats.

“We have to look out and protect who we have because we fought hard to get them in,” Congresswoman Robin Kelly told POLITICO. “I’m not a mapmaker, but it seems like it will be very difficult.”

Supporters of a congressional remap see wiggle room given four Democrats are exiting the House in 2026.

Getting real: Congresswoman Lauren Underwood, who is seeking reelection, was blunt: “I don’t think redistricting is happening in Illinois,” she said. “Talking about it and it happening are two different things. We get on the ballot in six weeks.”

Earlier this week, Gov. JB Pritzker told reporters he “pledged” to Jeffries “that I’ll do everything I can to make sure that Democrats win the Congress in 2026.” No word if that means redistricting in Illinois.

What we know: Jeffries has not contacted the Illinois General Assembly leaders who would be charged with doing a remap. POLITICO’s story is here.

By Shia Kapos

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