NPR News: 05-09-2026 2PM EDT

Tennessee has become the first Southern state to redraw its congressional map following a Supreme Court ruling that restricts the use of race in districting, with other states eyeing similar moves. This NPR News Now roundup also covers public health concerns over hantavirus, a violent incident in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, the fallout from Spirit Airlines' shutdown, and Hungary's new government after a major election upset.

Redistricting Shakes Up Southern Voting Maps

Tennessee adopted a new congressional map this week, making it the pioneer among Southern states in response to a Supreme Court decision curbing race-based redistricting. NPR's Stan Gagne notes that similar changes are brewing elsewhere, driven by ballot initiatives, court cases, and state lawmakers. The shifts complicate voting, especially in midterms with their typically low turnout and lack of presidential races to boost interest. Voters now face confusion over district assignments—someone might shift from district four to eleven—potentially suppressing participation further as people struggle to track their new boundaries.