The Georgia legislature has decided not to proceed with redrawing the state’s congressional map during a special legislative session scheduled for Wednesday. This decision comes despite a request from Governor Brian Kemp to address redistricting in preparation for the 2028 election cycle. Instead, Republican leaders have indicated a preference to focus on tax relief measures and the ratification of the state’s gas tax suspension. In a letter to Kemp, House GOP leaders stated that any redistricting efforts should be postponed until lawmakers have had adequate time to assess the implications of a recent Supreme Court ruling.
The lawmakers emphasized the importance of public input and adherence to constitutional requirements in the redistricting process, noting that it could affect every voter in Georgia. They referenced the Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais, which limited the use of race in congressional map-drawing and altered the legal framework for redistricting disputes. This ruling has raised questions about previous lower-court decisions under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, including a 2023 order mandating Georgia to redraw parts of its congressional map due to discriminatory findings.
While Kemp called for action during the special session, he acknowledged that the final decision lies with the General Assembly. He expressed that he sees no reason to delay the apportionment process but recognized the legislature's authority to defer the issue. The letter was signed by several prominent House Republicans, including Speaker Pro Tempore Jan Jones and House Majority Leader Chuck Efstration.