In a significant political development, Louisiana lawmakers on Friday gave their approval to a newly redrawn congressional map. This new map introduces a second US House district where the majority of constituents are Black, potentially jeopardizing a seat currently held by Republicans.
This legislative move, executed during a special session convened to adhere to a federal court directive, is seen as a victory for Democrats and civil rights organizations. These groups have been engaged in a protracted legal tussle over the congressional boundaries that were ratified by Louisiana’s Republican-dominated legislature in 2022.
A federal judge had previously determined that the initial map was discriminatory towards Louisiana’s Black voters. Despite constituting nearly one-third of the state’s population, Black voters were the majority in only one of the six congressional districts in the Bayou State.
The special session in Louisiana and the ongoing disputes over redistricting have been under the microscope in Washington. Republicans currently maintain a precarious majority in the US House of Representatives. The resolution of these redistricting battles could significantly influence which party will hold sway in the chamber following the elections in November.
The bill that delineates the new districts is now en route to the desk of Louisiana’s recently sworn-in Republican Governor, Jeff Landry. He is anticipated to give his assent to the legislation.