Quick answer: The Supreme Court finished its October 2025 term on June 30, 2026, after hearing 59 cases. Rulings on birthright citizenship, redistricting, transgender athletes, firearms and tariffs are shaping the political debate heading into the midterms.
Birthright Citizenship
The Court struck down President Trump’s executive order on birthright citizenship, in a decision the National Constitution Center called a landmark.
Redistricting
In Louisiana v. Callais, a divided Court ruled 6-3 to narrow how states may use race when drawing election districts. The decision has major implications for congressional maps and redistricting disputes in several states.
Transgender Athletes
The Court allowed state laws that regulate the participation of transgender athletes in school sports to stand.
Firearms
The justices struck down a Hawaii law regulating where firearms may be carried, in Wolford v. Lopez.
Tariffs
Earlier in the year, the Court ruled that the International Emergency Economic Powers Act does not authorize the president to impose tariffs. See our tariff explainer.
Looking Ahead
As of early July the Court had already accepted 20 cases for its next term. Decisions from this term continue to be debated on the campaign trail. For the electoral picture, read our midterm forecast overview.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the next term begin?
The Supreme Court’s terms traditionally begin on the first Monday in October.
Do these rulings affect the midterm elections?
Some do, particularly decisions about how election districts can be drawn. Their effects vary by state.
Source: National Constitution Center, “The Supreme Court in Review: Another Landmark Term” (July 2026). Case details are summarized and simplified.