Virginia Senate Democrats are reportedly planning to file a new congressional map when the General Assembly reconvenes Monday that would include a second “minority influence” district.
The district would be shaped by moving some of Rep. Bobby Scott’s black-majority 3rd Congressional District east to create a second influence district in the Richmond area. Scott’s district would retain a black majority, the Washington Post reported.
Experts say that it would be nearly impossible to create a second minority-majority district in the state, but that it would be possible to draw another one with a high percentage of minority voters and remain in compliance with the Voting Rights Act of 1965. The state’s new congressional map must contain at least one minority-majority district.
The Virginia Legislative Black Caucus has been pushing for a second such district to allow minority voters to have more of an influence in choosing candidates.
Sen. Chap Petersen, D-Fairfax, told the Washington Examiner that it’s fair to say that the Senate plan will differ significantly from the plan submitted by Del. Bill Janis, R-Henrico — which largely protects the state’s 11 incumbent congressmen – and sets up a showdown once legislators head back to Richmond Monday.
The debate could push beyond mere partisan wrangling, though, and create significant legal implications. Virginia is one of a handful of states that, because of its history of racial discrimination at the polls, must pre-clear its redistricting plans with the Department of Justice.
Bottom line? Get ready for some fireworks next week…
