NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WDEF) – Tennessee Gov. Bill Lee signed a new U.S. House redistricting map into law Thursday, finalizing a plan approved by the Republican-controlled legislature during a special session.
The new map significantly alters representation in Memphis by reshaping a congressional district that includes much of the city. Supporters say the changes reflect updated population data and legal guidance, while critics argue they reduce minority voting strength.
“Today you have taken the only majority Black district from us,” Democratic state Rep. Justin Pearson said. “But no matter what you do… we will still be here.”
The governor’s signature followed final approval in both chambers of the General Assembly after a week of debate and public protest at the Capitol in Nashville. The proposal advanced along largely partisan lines.
Democratic lawmakers and civil rights advocates have criticized the plan, saying it could weaken Black voting influence and shift political representation ahead of the 2026 congressional elections.
Republicans defended the map, saying it reflects census-based population data and court rulings related to redistricting.
“The map that you have in front of you was drafted based on the census population… and court rulings,” Republican state Rep. Jason Zachary said.
The move comes amid national redistricting discussions following a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling affecting Voting Rights Act protections in redistricting cases.
Supporters of the Tennessee plan say it reflects census-based population data and state control over congressional redistricting, while opponents call it a political effort to strengthen one party’s advantage.
The new congressional map will take effect ahead of the 2026 election cycle, when voters will elect their next U.S. House representatives under the revised districts.
