Louisiana Given Extension to Redraw Congressional Map in Compliance with Voting Rights Act

Louisiana lawmakers have been granted an extension until the end of January to draw and pass a new congressional map that complies with the Voting Rights Act after a federal judge ruled that the current map dilutes the power of the state's Black voters. The extension allows incoming Republican Governor Jeff Landry the opportunity to call a special redistricting session after his inauguration on January 8. Democrats argue for two majority-minority districts, while Republicans claim the current map is fair. If the Legislature fails to pass a new map by the extended deadline, a lower district court will hold a trial to decide on a plan for the 2024 elections.