Supreme Court reshapes voting rights landscape

The Supreme Court ruled that Louisiana lawmakers illegally relied on race when creating a majority-Black congressional district, striking down the state’s voting map. Writing for the majority, Justice Samuel Alito said the decision preserves the 1965 Voting Rights Act but clarifies that it only bars maps that intentionally weaken the power of minority voters. The court’s three liberal justices dissented, with Justice Elena Kagan warning that the ruling further dismantles the landmark civil rights law.

The decision is expected to aid Republicans in upcoming midterm elections by allowing states greater leeway to redraw district maps. Florida approved a new congressional map within hours of the ruling that could add several Republican seats.

In other developments, the court heard arguments over President Donald Trump’s effort to end humanitarian protections for migrants from Haiti and Syria, appearing closely divided. Separately, Pentagon officials told lawmakers that the war in Iran has cost about $25 billion so far, while Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell announced he would remain on the central bank’s board after his term as chair ends.