Alabama has petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to suspend a lower court's order that blocked the state from using a contentious congressional district map for the 2026 midterm elections.

The map, which critics argue dilutes the voting power of Black residents, has been at the center of legal battles in recent months.

Federal judges previously halted the use of the map, citing concerns over its impact on minority voters.

The state's latest request to the Supreme Court comes amid ongoing legal challenges over gerrymandering, with similar cases having been decided in favor of state governments in other parts of the country.

The outcome of this case could have for election laws and redistricting practices, particularly in states with closely contested political races.

Legal experts suggest the Supreme Court's decision may set a precedent for how such disputes are resolved in the future.