Gov. Kay Ivey called a special session of the Alabama Legislature to consider new congressional maps after a Supreme Court ruling. This decision could significantly impact representation for the Republican Party.
Alabama’s primaries are set for May 19, using a court-ordered map that includes two districts with heavy Black populations. However, the Supreme Court’s recent ruling may allow Alabama to revert to a previous map with just one district for Black voters.
This change would likely benefit Republicans, who currently hold five of Alabama’s congressional seats, while two are held by Democrats. The state is under a court order prohibiting redistricting until after the 2030 census.
As of midday, Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall filed an emergency motion seeking quick clarification from the Supreme Court regarding the congressional map. The special session aims to prepare for potential changes in congressional and state Senate maps if the injunction is lifted.
Voting rights groups have raised concerns about these redistricting efforts, citing possible voter suppression tactics. They argue that such moves undermine the Voting Rights Act.
The Supreme Court’s ruling also affects other southern states. Tennessee and South Carolina are considering similar actions regarding their congressional maps.
Gov. Kay Ivey stated, “By calling the Legislature into a special session, I am ensuring Alabama is prepared should the courts act quickly enough to allow Alabama’s previously drawn congressional and state Senate maps to be used during this election cycle.”
The implications of these changes are significant as they could reshape political power in Alabama ahead of the primaries. Still, officials have not confirmed how soon any new maps might be implemented.
