Supreme Court reviews Louisiana's race-based congressional mapping

The Supreme Court is set to hear a significant case concerning how states can consider race when creating congressional maps. Louisiana, which recently elected two Black representatives for the first time in nearly 30 years, faces a legal challenge over its congressional map. Critics argue that the map unfairly disadvantages non-Black voters. The case places emphasis on the tricky balance states must achieve. They need to follow a civil rights law that protects the voting power of minorities without discriminating against other voters. Civil rights groups are worried that the court might make a decision that weakens voting protections for minority groups. The challenge began after Louisiana redrew its congressional districts based on the 2020 Census. Initially, the state proposed only one majority Black district, despite Black residents making up about one-third of the population. Civil rights advocates objected, leading to a court ruling that suggested Louisiana could reasonably create a second majority Black district. Afterwards, Louisiana's legislature created a new map with two majority Black districts. However, this map was contested by some non-Black voters who argued that it focused too heavily on race. After the state appealed, the Supreme Court allowed the map to remain in place for 2024 but agreed to review the underlying issues. Lawyers for Louisiana argue that the new map reflects several political goals and not just racial considerations. They assert that it is possible to create a second majority Black district without making race the primary focus, a viewpoint supported by a past Supreme Court decision. Civil rights advocates, however, fear that the court may use this case to weaken protections in the Voting Rights Act, which have been affirmed in previous rulings. Legal experts warn that the upcoming decision could signal a change in how voting rights are interpreted, particularly in light of past Supreme Court actions. A decision from the Supreme Court is expected by the end of June.