Alabama has rejected the creation of a second majority-Black congressional district, which goes against a recent order from the U.S. Supreme Court. This decision could lead to a renewed battle over the state’s political map. Instead of creating a new district, lawmakers passed a compromise plan that would increase the percentage of Black voters in the 2nd District from 31% to 40%. Governor Kay Ivey signed the plan into law. The current state map, with only one majority-Black district out of seven, has been found to likely violate the federal Voting Rights Act.
Opponents of the plan argue that it invokes Alabama’s history of treating Black voters unfairly. Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder criticized the map and the politicians who supported it, likening it to the segregationist policies of George Wallace. Voting rights advocates and Black lawmakers believe that the plan does not provide enough opportunity for Black voters to elect representatives of their choice.
Republicans defend their proposal, stating that it complies with the directive to create a district where Black voters can influence congressional elections. However, Democrats argue that the district is designed to favor white Republicans and will not elect a Democrat or minority representative.
The debate over Alabama’s political map is being closely watched across the country and may set a precedent for other states facing similar challenges. The fight now moves to federal court to determine if the districts comply with federal law and provide a fair opportunity for Black voters and candidates.
Black lawmakers emphasize the importance of giving their constituents a better chance to elect their choices. They believe that the changes to the 2nd District do not go far enough and accuse state Republicans of trying to undermine voting rights.
Experts and the Associated Press analysis suggest that the Republican proposals fall short of what the Supreme Court requires. The fight over Alabama’s political map will continue in court, with the outcome potentially impacting voting rights and representation in the state.
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