Tennessee Republicans have unveiled a new congressional map amid a special session on redistricting, which began May 5. Now, a grassroots movement is forming in opposition to the proposed map.
Amber Sherman, lead Tennessee organizer for the group Black Voters Matter, led a protest and rally at the Capitol, saying the future of the 9th Congressional District – the state’s only majority-Black district – is at risk. She added the proposals could weaken the district and dilute Black voting power.
"The proposed maps that have been posted by politicians and shared by our governor and by the president would remove our congressional district," Sherman pointed out. "It's unfair to us. We all deserve fair representation no matter what Supreme Court ruling came out."
Rep. Cameron Sexton, R-Crossville, the Speaker of the House, also rolled out House Bill 7001, aiming to temporarily lift the state constitution’s residency requirement for candidates running for U.S. House seats in the 2026 election.
Rep. Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., who represents Tennessee’s 9th District, said he plans to fight the redistricting push using every political and legal option available. The proposals to redraw Tennessee maps follow a U.S. Supreme Court ruling limiting how race can be used as a factor in redistricting.
Sherman noted the proposed maps would affect the whole state of Tennessee, shuffling many rural voters around to different congressional districts. She emphasized representation and making your voice heard at the ballot box matter, particularly in the upcoming August primary and November general election.
"There are local elections where you're going to feel the impact even more and even quicker," Sherman stressed. "We want folks to make sure they're voting in local elections because your local mayor, your city council, your county commission, your alderman, all those local officials are going to make everyday changes that you're going to feel yourself."
Supporters of the new congressional maps said the redistricting effort is about ensuring maps reflect legal standards and population changes.
Source: Public News Service
