Alabama Republicans are facing criticism for their proposed congressional map, which increases Black voter representation in one district but falls short of creating a second majority-Black district as directed by the Supreme Court. The state legislature is racing against a Friday deadline to implement a new map after the Supreme Court upheld a ruling that the current map likely violates the Voting Rights Act.

Instead of creating a second majority-Black district, Republican lawmakers advanced plans to increase the Black voting age population in the 2nd Congressional District to either 38% or 42%. This move has been met with condemnation from critics who argue that it fails to comply with the court's order to create a district where Black voters have a significant influence on election outcomes. They contend that the proposed changes are insufficient to address the dilution of Black voting power.

Republicans defend their proposal, asserting that it creates a swing district that could be won by either party and fulfills the court's directive. However, opponents, including the National Redistricting Foundation, argue that the GOP is prioritizing political mapmaking over fair representation for Black Alabamians. They have vowed to challenge the proposed maps in court if enacted.

Democratic lawmakers have also expressed concerns, stating that the proposed district would likely remain under white Republican control and that the state is wasting taxpayer money on continued litigation. They urged their Republican colleagues to comply with the court order and create a map that ensures fair representation for all citizens.

The debate underscores the tension between complying with the Voting Rights Act and partisan mapmaking. The three-judge panel that initially blocked the current map has given Alabama until Friday to submit a new plan, and it retains the authority to draw its own map if the legislature's proposal is deemed unacceptable. The ongoing legal battle highlights the challenges of ensuring fair representation in a politically charged environment.

Alabama state Sen. Vivian Davis Figures holds a copy of a GOP congressional map proposal at the Alabama Statehouse in Montgomery on July 18, 2023. Figures said Republicans are flouting a court order to create a second majority-Black congressional district. (AP Photo/Kim Chandler)