Governor Ivey Signs Redistricting Special Election Bills, Potentially Impacting Alabama Congressional Seats
Governor Kay Ivey of Alabama has signed two special election bills into law, which could lead to significant changes in the state's congressional representation. These bills allow Alabama to use previously passed congressional district and State Senate maps if a federal court or the U.S. Supreme Court lifts an existing injunction. This move follows a Supreme Court decision in Louisiana v. Callias, which ruled race-based redistricting unconstitutional. Alabama's 2023 congressional map, which was blocked by a federal court for likely violating the Voting Rights Act, could be reinstated, potentially increasing Republican representation from five to six seats. This change could affect U.S. Representative Shomari Figures, a Democrat, who might lose his seat. The special session that led to these bills was marked by intense debate, with Democrats opposing the measures and warning of potential voter backlash. 
