The US Supreme Court has rejected Alabama’s request to continue using a congressional map that diluted the influence of Black voters in the state. This decision confirms the court’s commitment to upholding the 1965 Voting Rights Act and signals that they are not backing away from their previous ruling. The new map will create a second majority-Black district, giving political power to voters in the Black belt.
Supreme Court Rejects Alabama’s Plea and Allows Drawing of New Congressional Map
The US Supreme Court has denied Alabama’s request to continue using a congressional map that diluted the influence of Black voters in the state. This decision reaffirms the court’s commitment to upholding the 1965 Voting Rights Act, following their previous ruling in June. As a result, a new congressional map will be drawn, creating a second majority-Black district that will empower voters in the Black belt.
Striking Down a Map that Diluted Black Voters’ Influence
A three-judge panel had previously ruled that Alabama could have easily drawn a reasonably configured district that gave Black voters a majority in a second district. The Supreme Court agreed with this determination, stating that the map diluted the influence of Black voters. However, the Republican-controlled Alabama legislature drew a new map that once again only gave Black voters a majority in one district. This move was met with opposition and the map was struck down again.
A Victory for Black Voters in Alabama
The Supreme Court’s rejection of Alabama’s plea is seen as a victory for Black voters in the state. The new congressional map will create a second majority-Black district, providing political power to voters in the Black belt. This rural area, marked by extreme poverty, will now have increased representation in Congress. Civil rights groups and their lawyers have celebrated the court’s decision, emphasizing the importance of holding elected officials accountable and ensuring fair representation for all.
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