Louisiana’s Bid to Sidestep Voting Rights Act Shut Down by Federal Judges

A federal appeals court has affirmed a lower court's decision stating that Louisiana's legislative maps breach the Voting Rights Act, consequently undermining the electoral power of Black residents.The Fifth U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals concurred that these maps unjustly splinter communities into state districts, diluting their electoral influence and obstructing their chances of electing favored representatives.This ruling arises from the Nairne v. Landry lawsuit initiated by Black residents disputing 2022 redistricting efforts. The new congressional district configurations failed to enhance the number of seats held by a Black majority.The lawsuit alleged racial gerrymandering, contending that the state legislature intentionally crafted maps that disenfranchise the African American demographic, which constitutes one-third of Louisiana's populace.In a subsequent decision, U.S. District Judge Shelly Dick ruled in favor of the plaintiffs. The state’s appeal, which dismissed federal prohibitions against racial discrimination, was ultimately rejected by the Fifth Circuit."This decision reinforces Black voters' rights in Louisiana," stated ACLU attorney Megan Keenan, echoing the message that the Voting Rights Act remains essential against racial discrimination.