Tennessee GOP Approves Map Splitting Memphis' Majority-Black District

Context The map was passed in a special session after the U.S. Supreme Court weakened federal Voting Rights Act protections, giving states more leeway to draw districts without strict racial considerations. Tennessee is the first state to act since that ruling, and other Southern states are considering similar moves. The new map must still be signed by Republican Gov. Bill Lee.

Key Facts - The approved map carves up Memphis’ sole Democratic‑held district, which is currently represented by white Rep. Steve Cohen, stretching it eastward toward Nashville suburbs. - State Rep. Justin Pearson, a Black Democrat from Memphis, said the maps are "racist tools of white supremacy" driven by Donald Trump. - Republicans project they could gain up to 13 House seats from recent redistricting nationwide; Democrats estimate up to 10 gains.

What It Means Splitting the Black‑majority district reduces the concentration of Black voters in one area, making it harder for Democrats to win that seat. Republicans argue the map follows population and partisan data, not race, while Democrats warn it dilutes Black voting power and could set a precedent for other states. Legal challenges are likely as groups argue the map violates the Voting Rights Act.

Watch for Gov. Bill Lee’s signature, any federal lawsuits challenging the map, and how the altered districts affect the August primary and November general election.