Gov. Bill Lee is calling Tennessee lawmakers into a special session May 5 to review the state’s congressional maps. The move follows a U.S. Supreme Court ruling limiting how race can be used as a factor in redistricting.

Nonpartisan voting rights advocates said the decision, which originates from a Louisiana case, could have major consequences in Tennessee and beyond.

Debby Gould, president of the League of Women Voters of Tennessee, said the league opposes any attempt at redistricting in the wake of the decision. She added splitting Tennessee’s 9th Congressional District would eliminate representation of Black Tennesseans in Congress.

"Our concern as a league is that if we actually care about a multiracial democracy, that we have to make sure that voters have a meaningful opportunity to choose the candidate," Gould explained.

Lee said in a written statement he believes the General Assembly has a responsibility to review the map and ensure it remains fair, legal, and defensible. Gould noted redrawing maps now, without regard to the interests of Black communities, opens the door to racial discrimination.

Gould is warning lawmakers not to repeat mistakes made in Tennessee’s 2022 maps, which she pointed out split Nashville into three districts and weakened representation. Gould added focus groups showed voters in both urban and rural areas want candidates who understand their local needs and cautioned dividing Memphis would ignore their concerns.

"I think the real issue is to have the state legislators and the governor listen to the public," Gould urged. "Give the public what they feel they need in order to have effective representation."

Lee is asking lawmakers to move quickly on the new maps. Tennessee's primary election for state and local elections is May 5, followed by a second primary for federal races on August 6. The general election will be held Nov. 3.

Source: Public News Service