Alabama has sparked controversy by refusing to create a second majority-Black congressional district, despite a recent order from the U.S. Supreme Court to give minority voters a greater voice. Instead, lawmakers in the Republican-dominated House and Senate passed a compromise plan that would increase the percentage of Black voters in the state’s 2nd District from 31% to 40%. This move has been criticized by Rep. Terri Sewell, Alabama’s only Black member of Congress, who accused Republicans of shamelessly ignoring the Supreme Court’s order.
The Supreme Court ruling in June upheld a finding that Alabama’s current district map likely violates the federal Voting Rights Act. The plan invoked the state’s history of treating Black voters unfairly under the Jim Crow laws. Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder criticized the map, stating that it would make segregationist former Alabama governor George Wallace proud.
While Republicans argue that their proposal complies with the directive to create a second district where Black voters can influence congressional elections, critics believe it falls short of the court’s requirement for a second majority-Black district or something close to it. They argue that Black voters must have the opportunity to elect representatives of their choice.
This debate in Alabama has far-reaching implications, as similar fights may arise in Louisiana, Georgia, Texas, and other states. The fight now shifts to the federal court to determine whether Alabama’s congressional districts comply with federal law and provide a fair opportunity for Black voters and candidates. Black lawmakers stress the importance of giving their constituents a chance to elect their preferred candidates.
While Republicans are gambling on the court accepting their proposal or the state prevailing in a second round of appeals, experts suggest that the GOP proposals fall short of the Supreme Court’s requirements. Critics believe the changes to the 2nd District do not make it a swing district as claimed by Republicans, but rather serve as another attempt to challenge federal voting laws.
These developments highlight the ongoing struggle for fair representation and political power for minority communities in the United States. As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the courts will ultimately interpret and enforce the Supreme Court’s order, and whether Black voters in Alabama will gain the representation they deserve.
