Title: Mississippi Legislative Redistricting Approved by Federal Judges, Special Elections Set for November
May 8, 2023
A panel of three federal judges has approved a new legislative redistricting plan for Mississippi, following months of legal disputes. This ruling, issued on May 7, has paved the way for 15 special elections for legislative seats scheduled for November 4.
The revised Senate map was developed by the Mississippi Board of Election Commissioners, which includes Gov. Tate Reeves, Attorney General Lynn Fitch, and Secretary of State Michael Watson. The judges previously rejected the Legislature’s redistricting proposal on April 15, citing concerns about minority representation. Along with the Senate map, the judges accepted a redrawn Mississippi House district map.
In their ruling, the judges stated that the new Senate District 2 plan provides a meaningful opportunity for minority voters while preserving government continuity. Notably, Senate District 2 has been designated as a majority-minority district, joining Senate District 11, which already holds this status.
The redistricting altered the Black-voting age population percentages in several districts. Despite some modifications, the new map avoids pairing incumbents, allowing the four affected senators to run for reelection in the upcoming special elections. The districts involved include those represented by Senators Michael McLendon, David Parker, Reginald Jackson, and Kevin Blackwell.
Despite the approval, concerns remain about the design and compactness of some districts, particularly Senate District 11. The ACLU’s Mississippi director, Jarvis Dortch, argues for a more transparent and public-inclusive redistricting process going forward.
This decision marks a significant chapter in Mississippi’s ongoing efforts to enhance electoral representation for Black voters and ensure compliance with the Voting Rights Act. As the new plan comes into effect this November, all eyes will be on the special elections and the political landscape they may reshape.
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