Proposed Congressional Redistricting Map Released in Tennessee

This is a news release from the Tennessee General Assembly

Legislation filed to modernize redistricting in Tennessee

NASHVILLE – During this week’s special session, House Speaker Cameron Sexton (R-Crossville) and Senate Majority Leader Jack Johnson (R-Franklin) filed House Bill 7003/Senate Bill 7004 to redraw Tennessee congressional districts, ensuring the state’s representation in Washington reflects its conservative values.

“Tennessee is a conservative state and our congressional delegation should reflect that,” said Sen. John Stevens (R-Huntingdon), who is carrying the Senate bill. “This bill ensures it does.”

The legislation modernizes Tennessee’s redistricting process by removing racial data from the mapmaking process entirely. It is a direct response to a renewed national conversation on redistricting. The Alexander v. South Carolina State Conference of the NAACP and Louisiana v. Callais decisions by the Supreme Court have clarified the legal landscape for redistricting. Those decisions confirm the state can put its lawful, conservative policy goals at the forefront.

“The Supreme Court has opined that redistricting, like the judicial system, should be color-blind. The decision indicated states like Tennessee can redistrict based on partisan politics,” said Speaker Sexton, who is carrying the House bill. “Tennessee’s redistricting will reduce the risk of future legal challenges while promoting sound and strategic conservatism.”

The attached congressional map will be presented in House and Senate committees today with the expectation of floor votes in each chamber on Thursday.