Outgoing State Rep. Phillip Ensler (D-Montgomery), the current Democratic candidate for the state's next lieutenant governor, is using a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that puts the future of the state's congressional districts in question to rally support for his campaign.
A 6-3 majority of the Supreme Court found race-based redistricting unconstitutional in a Louisiana case on Wednesday. The ruling will likely have major implications for Alabama's congressional map. SCOTUS could rule on Alabama-specific redistricting cases next week.
Alabama remains under a court order prohibiting the use of new congressional maps until after the 2030 census. However, after Attorney General Steve Marshall filed emergency motions at the U.S. Supreme Court to lift the injunction, Gov. Kay Ivey announced a special. Session to redraw the state's maps starting Monday.
In response to the SCOTUS ruling, Ensler ramped up efforts to draw Democratic support in the blood-red state, saying victory was necessary to ensure fair representation.
"After yesterday's Supreme Court ruling significantly limited the Voting Rights Act, Alabama leaders are already threatening to re-draw Alabama's districts and reverse the progress our state has made," Ensler wrote. "As I travel the state, Alabamians are looking for leaders that want to move the state forward."
"With the Primary Election on May 19th, it is critical that our campaign secures victory so we can continue to fight for fair representation in Alabama – but we need your support to reach voters across all of Alabama's 67 counties!" he added.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning.
