Democrats Have a Big Problem Coming Their Way: The Census

Democrats know they have to make inroads in the South to be competitive in presidential elections. No one’s really sure how to do it.

Ken Martin
The census is on DNC chair Ken Martin’s mind. Rod Lamkey/AP

As Democrats battle over reconciliation, the age of their party, the direction of their party, who will lead their party, President Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden, immigration, why they’re losing ground with men, why they’re losing ground with Hispanics, how they can win in 2026, how they can win in 2028 and why they lost in 2024, they’re also starting to think about another issue: 2030.

The 2030 Census reapportionment is shaping up to be one of the most significant political shifts of the century. And Democrats fear it’s not going to be kind to them.

The South is projected to gain nine congressional seats — the largest single-decade gain for the region in history.