Census Plans, Redistricting Could Reshape House

The Trump administration’s proposed changes to the 2030 census would exclude undocumented immigrants and other noncitizens without green cards, potentially including students, workers with temporary permits, refugees and asylum seekers. Because census data determines congressional apportionment, redistricting and federal funding, the changes could reshape political representation and might even cost Texas a House seat it otherwise would gain, despite expectations that they would benefit Republicans. The administration also proposes removing race and ethnicity questions, drawing criticism from advocates and scholars who say the data is essential for identifying discrimination and directing resources. Separately, Maryland voters will consider new rules for drawing future congressional districts as Democrats seek to respond to Republican redistricting efforts elsewhere. The proposals come amid a broader mid-decade redistricting battle that has already shifted districts for roughly 35 million Americans and intensified concerns that partisan mapmaking is weakening representation and public trust in elections.