Alabama asks Supreme Court to clear way for Republicans’ redrawn voting map

Alabama urged the Supreme Court on Friday for an emergency order clearing the way for its redrawn congressional map that could boost Republicans’ chances of holding on to the House in November.

The ask landed just as Gov. Kay Ivey (R) signed the map, which lawmakers passed in response to the high court’s recent decision in Louisiana that weakened the Voting Rights Act. 

Alabama says that should enable the state to axe the boundaries that judges forcibly implemented to boost Black voting power under the 1965 law. The court-mandated design led to the election of Democratic Rep. Shomari Figures.

“After enacting a racial gerrymander, Louisiana is now free to hold elections under a lawful map consistent with its policy goals. Alabama seeks the same opportunity,” Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall’s (R) office wrote to the justices, asking for a ruling by Thursday.

It adds to a whirlwind redistricting moment as states race to redraw their maps ahead of the fast-approaching midterm contests. Earlier on Friday, Virginia’s top court struck down state Democrats’ new map for not following the proper procedures.

Ivey called on Alabama Republicans to........

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