Gov. Kay Ivey called for a special session to begin today, just days after the Supreme Court's ruling in Louisiana vs Callais. The decision, critics say, removes key checks that had protected majority-minority districts from being redrawn mid-election.

Republican leaders say they want a fighting chance to send seven GOP members to Congress. But Robyn Hyden, executive director of Alabama Arise, said the timing and substance of the move threatens fair representation.

"We know there's been a long strategy from the far right to undermine the Voting Rights Act, which protects fair representation and districting, especially for Black voters," said Hyden. "So unfortunately, Alabama is now one of the states."

Following Florida's move last week, Alabama joins Tennessee in holding special legislative sessions this week to draw new congressional and state Senate maps. Gov. Ivey has said the state is preparing in case courts allow Alabama to use previously drawn maps.

Republican legislative leaders acknowledge uncertainty but argue they have a responsibility to pursue new district lines. Ivey has filed an emergency motion with the Supreme Court seeking permission to move forward.

Hyden said the rushed process is especially troubling because some Alabamians have already voted. She's urging voters to make their voices heard, both at the ballot box and at the statehouse.

"I think it's a terrible decision," said Hyden. "I think it's a travesty of justice, I think it's outrageous to be redrawing maps when voters have already been casting absentee ballots for the May 19th election, which is scheduled."

Hyden noted that the original Voting Rights Act was won through the power of the people, and she said she believes it can be defended the same way.

She encouraged Alabamians to contact their state representatives and the governor, show up at the Capitol, and check their voter registration at Alabamavotes.gov.

The voter registration deadline for the May 19 primary is also today.

Source: Public News Service