Baton Rouge, La. (4/30/2026) – Governor Jeff Landry has suspended Louisiana’s congressional primary elections following the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in the Callais case.
Landry signed Executive Order JML 26-038 on April 30, 2026. The order declares a state of emergency tied to the state’s congressional maps. The Court ruled those maps unconstitutional in Louisiana v. Callais.
As a result, Landry halted closed party primaries for U.S. House races. These elections were scheduled for May 16 and June 27, 2026. The suspension will remain in place until July 15, 2026, or until lawmakers act.
The order follows a formal certification from the Secretary of State. That certification confirmed an emergency affecting Louisiana’s election process. State law allows the governor to delay elections under those conditions.
Landry stated the current maps violate constitutional protections. He also said holding elections under those maps would harm voters. The Supreme Court reached that conclusion in a 6-3 decision.
However, the order does not affect all elections. Other races and propositions on the ballot will move forward as scheduled. In addition, the November 3, 2026, congressional election date remains unchanged.
Meanwhile, Landry is pushing the Legislature to act quickly. The order encourages lawmakers to pass new congressional maps as soon as possible. It also calls for updated election timelines to stay on track for November.
The Jeff Landry executive order Callais case now places pressure on state leaders. They must redraw districts that meet constitutional standards. At the same time, they must ensure voters have a clear and fair process.
The order took effect immediately upon signing. It will remain active through May 30, 2026, unless changed or extended.
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