South Carolina Senate Probes Redistricting Map as 5-Day Special Session Stretches Toward Memorial Day
Updated
Updated · WIS News 10 · May 21
South Carolina Senate Probes Redistricting Map as 5-Day Special Session Stretches Toward Memorial Day
9 articles · Updated · WIS News 10 · May 21
South Carolina senators opened floor debate on a disputed redistricting plan without voting, then adjourned with talks set to resume Friday and potentially run through Memorial Day.
Lawmakers from both parties pressed Judiciary Chairman Luke Rankin on who drew the map and what data or criteria shaped it, but he said senators did not create it and he lacked those details.
The scrutiny centered on a map crafted by the National Republican Redistricting Trust, with Democrats arguing the process lacked transparency and public input.
One flashpoint came when Republican Sen. Michael Johnson offered an alternative map he said had White House input, then withdrew it, fueling Democratic claims that outside political forces were driving the process.
Protesters gathered outside the State House as the chamber's fifth day of special-session debate underscored how politically fraught South Carolina's redistricting fight has become.
How will redrawing maps impact voters when thousands of ballots have already been cast for a primary?
When outside consultants draw electoral maps, who ensures the process serves local voters' interests?
What new legal standards must states now meet when redrawing their congressional district boundaries?