(AURN News) — A political and racial battle is unfolding in Tennessee over a proposed congressional map that critics say targets Black voters, particularly in Memphis.
Republican lawmakers have proposed redrawing the state’s congressional districts in a way that would split Memphis, a city that is more than 60% Black, into three separate districts.
Each of those districts would extend into largely white rural areas of the state, dramatically changing the makeup of the electorate in each one.
For decades, Memphis has remained largely intact within a single district, allowing its majority-Black population to have a stronger voice in choosing its representation.
Opponents of the proposal say dividing the city’s population weakens Black voting power.
The proposal comes after key protections under the Voting Rights Act were weakened two weeks ago in a Supreme Court decision that critics say gutted Section 2, opening the door for states to redraw districts in ways that were previously restricted.
Click play to listen to the report from AURN White House Correspondent Ebony McMorris. For more news, follow @E_N_McMorris & @aurnonline.
