Redistricting Schemes Under Fire

WASHINGTON, D.C. – In a bold move to protect the fundamental rights of American citizens, federal authorities have issued a stern warning to state, county, and municipal governments to comply with Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The guidance document, released today, aims to curb discriminatory redistricting schemes and election practices.

“The right to vote is the right from which all other rights ultimately flow,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Discriminatory redistricting schemes or election practices threaten that fundamental right and are illegal. The guidance issued today makes clear that jurisdictions must abide by federal laws when redrawing their legislative maps and that the Justice Department will vigilantly assess jurisdictions’ compliance with those laws during the redistricting cycle.”

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division echoed Attorney General Garland’s sentiments, stating, “Our goal this redistricting season is simple: to ensure that new maps for city councils, school boards, county commissions, state legislatures, Congressional house seats and more do not discriminate on the basis of race, color or membership in a protected language minority group.”

The guidance document outlines the Justice Department’s approach to reviewing redistricting plans and methods of electing governmental bodies to evaluate compliance with Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. The document also details how the department applies well-established case law while investigating and bringing enforcement actions under Section 2.

As part of its efforts to safeguard voting rights, the Justice Department has taken a series of actions to protect the fundamental right to vote. For more information on these efforts, click here.

Members of the public are encouraged to report any complaints or comments regarding possible violations of federal voting rights laws to the Voting Section. This can include complaints or comments about methods of election or districting plans that may violate Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. Complaints and comments can be reported to the Voting Section of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division at 1-800-253-3931.

For the guidance document on redistricting, click here.

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