Tennessee Governor Signs New Districts Into Law
WASHINGTON, D.C. — This morning, Gov. Bill Lee (R) signed Tennessee’s new legislative and congressional maps into law. All three plans were approved by the Republican-controlled General Assembly in January.
The new congressional plan dismantles the Nashville-based congressional district held by Rep. Jim Cooper (D) by dividing Davidson County into three separate districts that will dilute the county’s minority vote. Cooper, who has been a vocal opponent of “cracking” Nashville in this way, announced his retirement soon after, as his district is now likely unwinnable for a Democrat. The maps for the state House and Senate were similarly criticized by Democrats for unfairly favoring Republicans and diluting the voting power of minorities. The Tennessee Democratic Party has announced its intention to sue over the new maps.