SouthernWorldwide.com – Tennessee’s Republican-controlled legislature has approved a new congressional map that effectively dismantles the state’s sole district represented by a Democrat.
This development marks the latest instance of a state undertaking redistricting as both major parties vie for control of the U.S. House of Representatives in the upcoming November elections.
The newly drawn map now awaits the signature of Republican Governor Bill Lee, who convened a special legislative session specifically for the purpose of redrawing the congressional boundaries. Prior to this, the General Assembly had to first repeal its own prohibition on redistricting midway through a decade.
The revised map divides Memphis, a city with a Black majority, and its surrounding Shelby County into three separate districts, a strategic move widely seen as favoring Republican candidates. Currently, Democratic Representative Steve Cohen represents Memphis and Shelby County, and he has indicated his intention to challenge the new map legally.
Nashville, which was a Democratic stronghold until its districts were reconfigured in 2021, continues to be split across three congressional districts, though the new map alters these divisions. Prior to this week’s redistricting, Democrats had been targeting District 5, currently held by Republican Representative Andy Ogles. However, the redrawn District 5 now encompasses affluent Nashville suburbs and extends into downtown Memphis.
Governor Lee called for the special session of the Tennessee legislature following the Supreme Court’s decision to invalidate Louisiana’s congressional map. In that ruling, the Supreme Court interpreted Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act more narrowly, particularly concerning the consideration of race in the drawing of House district lines.
“These maps were drawn with the explicit goal of maximizing our partisan advantage,” stated Republican State Senator John Stevens, who represents northwest Tennessee.
Democrats have voiced strong opposition to the new map, and protesters gathered at the State Capitol on Thursday to demonstrate against the measure. Ahead of the Senate vote, protestors could be heard shouting, “Don’t do this!” Democratic State Senator London Lamar, representing Memphis, issued a warning to the Republicans, stating, “You have awakened a sleeping giant today.”
The measure initially passed the Tennessee House of Representatives during a contentious session that led to the ejection of the audience. Following the passage of the measure, Democratic lawmakers staged a walkout.
The conflict surrounding mid-decade redistricting gained significant traction last summer when former President Trump urged Texas Republicans to redraw their congressional map. The issue saw renewed momentum last week following the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Voting Rights Act.
