Party accuses Republicans of racially dividing South Carolina’s electorate to favor white politicians
The United States Supreme Court decided this Thursday (May 23, 2024) to maintain the use of South Carolina’s electoral map. The version is contested by Democrats.
According to President Joe Biden’s party, the map disadvantages black voters to the benefit of Republican candidates. The 6-3 decision once again reinforces the division between conservatives and liberals in the US Supreme Court. Here’s the complete of the decision (PDF – 1 MB, in English).
The Republican-controlled South Carolina House has been accused of dividing voters based on race to consolidate the Republican majority, a practice considered unconstitutional under the 14th Amendment to the country’s Constitution.
With the decision of the last instance, the case returns to the State Court. In the 1st instance, a federal panel of 3 judges had classified the map as a clear example of “racial gerrymandering”, particularly in Charleston, where black communities were allegedly divided to create a more Republican-friendly district. At the time, the panel asked for a new map design.
“Gerrymandering” is the name given to changes in the geographic boundaries of electoral districts to segregate portions of the population and increase the influence of others.
If the map is maintained, Representative Nancy Mace (Republican) will gain momentum in the race for re-election to the US House of Representatives. She is a member of the Lower House for the 1st district of South Carolina, which encompasses the city of Charleston.
His re-election is important to help the party maintain the slight majority it has in the Chamber. Currently, there are 217 Republican deputies and 213 Democrats. Another 5 seats are vacant. In the November 5 elections, all 435 seats will be up for grabs.
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