Multiple Lawsuits Filed After Governor Halts May 16

Update: Louisiana lawmakers passed a new congressional map on May 29, 2026, and Gov. Landry signed it. The congressional primary was rescheduled as an open primary on Nov. 3, with a Dec. 12 runoff, according to the Louisiana Illuminator.

A major legal battle is unfolding in Louisiana after Governor Jeff Landry issued an executive order that stopped part of the upcoming May 16 election.

The order specifically suspended the state’s congressional primary races after a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling threw out Louisiana’s current congressional map. State leaders say the election couldn’t move forward using a map that was just ruled unconstitutional.

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A lawsuit has been filed against the governor and other state officials, arguing the move goes too far and may violate both state and federal law.

Critics say thousands of voters had already requested or returned ballots, and early voting was about to begin. They argue stopping an election that’s already in motion could undermine trust in the system and potentially disenfranchise voters.

The lawsuit warns that if a governor can declare an “emergency” to cancel an election mid-process, it could set a precedent for the future.

On the other side, state officials say they had no choice. They argue holding an election under a map already ruled unconstitutional would create even bigger legal problems and chaos down the line.

As of now, the congressional races are expected to be delayed while lawmakers redraw district lines.

What this means for voters: if you’re voting May 16, most races and constitutional amendments are still happening as planned. The only thing impacted right now is the congressional primary.

This situation is still developing, and with litigation moving through the courts, more changes could be coming.

Also reported by: WAFB.