North Carolina has approved a new Congressional map that is expected to face legal challenges. The decision came after the N.C. House of Representatives voted 65 to 48 to shift nearly 500,000 residents between the 1st and 3rd Congressional Districts. This change aims to provide the Republican Party with an advantage in the 1st District for upcoming elections.
Key Details of the New Congressional Map
- Vote Outcome: The new map was backed by all present Republicans and opposed by all Democrats during the vote.
- Timeline: The vote occurred just six days after the map proposal was revealed.
- GOP Intentions: Republicans claim the map’s purpose is to secure an additional Congressional seat, strengthening their control in the U.S. House during the midterm elections.
Democrats contend that the new map undermines the voting power of Black residents in eastern North Carolina, which they argue could violate the federal Voting Rights Act. Under the current map for 2024, Republicans have a clear advantage in ten of the state’s Congressional districts, while Democrats control three districts. The 1st District, previously seen as competitive, was won by moderate Democrat U.S. Rep. Don Davis in the last two elections.
Controversies and Reactions
- House Majority Leader Brenden Jones expressed that the new map is necessary to counteract what he perceives as a long-standing gerrymandered advantage held by Democrats.
- Democrats, including Rep. Alma Adams and House Minority Whip Gloristine Brown, criticized the map for breaking up established Black voter communities, essential for electing Black representatives over the previous 32 years.
Impact on Minority Voters
The demographics of the 1st District are set to shift significantly under the new map. The percentage of Black voters, which currently stands at around 40%, is projected to decrease to approximately 32%. Key counties such as Greene, Lenoir, Wayne, and Wilson will move into the 3rd District, represented by Republican Greg Murphy.
U.S. Rep. Don Davis and other critics argue that this change reflects misplaced priorities among GOP lawmakers in Raleigh. Davis described the process leading to the map’s approval as one of the “darkest days” in state history due to limited public engagement and transparency.
Legal Implications and Future Challenges
Gov. Josh Stein is unable to veto the new map, as North Carolina’s constitution does not allow for such actions. However, many anticipate that the map will face a legal challenge, likely centered around its impact on the electoral power of Black voters in the state.
