Tennessee Republicans have unveiled a new congressional map that would eliminate the state's lone Democratic-leaning district centered in Memphis. The proposal follows a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling that narrowed the interpretation of the Voting Rights Act, allowing states more flexibility in redistricting.
The current map favors Republicans 8-1, with the 9th Congressional District as the only Democratic-held seat. Under the new proposal, the 9th District would be redrawn to include parts of southern Tennessee, while Shelby County—home to Memphis—would be split into three districts. Nashville would also be divided among three districts, and other major cities like Chattanooga and Knoxville would remain intact.
Republicans argue the changes align with the Supreme Court's ruling, which they interpret as allowing redistricting based on partisan politics rather than racial considerations. Tennessee House Speaker Cameron Sexton stated, 'The Supreme Court has opined that redistricting, like the judicial system, should be color-blind.'
Democratic Rep. Steve Cohen, whose district would be eliminated, criticized the proposal as a 'blatant, corrupt power grab.' He argued the new map would dilute the political voice of Black communities and Memphis residents. Cohen posted on X, 'It's a blatant, corrupt power grab that would destroy the Black community's and our entire city's voice.'
The redistricting effort is part of a broader push by Southern Republicans to redraw congressional maps following the Supreme Court's decision. Similar efforts are underway in South Carolina, Alabama, and Louisiana, where the court struck down a map for relying too heavily on race.
The proposed Tennessee map must still be approved by the state legislature before taking effect. If passed, it could shift the state's congressional delegation to a 10-0 Republican majority.