GOP Advances Redistricting Plans in South Carolina and Georgia After Supreme Court Ruling

Republicans in two Southern states—South Carolina and Georgia—are advancing plans to redraw their electoral districts this year after the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais last month weakened the Voting Rights Act.

South Carolina Governor Calls for Special Session

South Carolina Governor Henry McMaster is preparing to convene a special legislative session to address redistricting. Local news outlet WIS-10 reports that the governor’s office has indicated an announcement is expected on Thursday, coinciding with the end of the state’s legislative session.

The South Carolina Senate rejected a resolution on Tuesday that would have authorized a special session, leaving an executive order from the governor as the only viable path forward.

On Tuesday night, McMaster posted on X (formerly Twitter), stating:

"The General Assembly still has two full days in which to finish its important work, including giving full consideration—as sought by the people—to the important question of redistricting.
I urge the General Assembly to finish its work according to the U.S. and South Carolina constitutions and the best interests of the people."

Georgia Governor Schedules June 17 Special Session

Meanwhile, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced a special legislative session on June 17 to redraw the state’s congressional map, as reported by The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. While Kemp has ruled out changes before the November midterm elections, he aims to finalize the new map ahead of the state’s gubernatorial elections.

Republicans in Georgia currently hold a 9–5 advantage in the state’s House delegation. In South Carolina, the delegation includes one Democrat, Representative Jim Clyburn, and six Republicans.

Broader Context: GOP-Led Redistricting Efforts

If successful, these redistricting efforts would align South Carolina and Georgia with other Southern states—Louisiana, Tennessee, Alabama, Mississippi, and Florida—where Republicans have moved to reduce the political influence of Black voters.