Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves was among the plaintiffs in the lawsuit against the state’s congressional map, which was overturned by Tuesday’s two-to-one court decision. They agreed that race was the predominant factor for the map that changed his district into a majority-black one. As for what’s next…
“I believe that the decision that they put together last night, calls for a status conference on May 6th, and I know that the court and the state from what I understand were targeting a date of May 15th in trying to get new maps,” said Graves.
State Attorney General Liz Murrill said the state will appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court so the map lawmakers passed in January will stand.
Graves said the most recent map resembled one that the courts ruled was unconstitutional based on race in the 90s. As the map remains in limbo, Graves said he wants to concentrate on more pressing issues.
“I think the decision speaks for itself, and I think what’s most important is that we focus on actually not only distractions but focus on trying to address a lot of the major problems that Louisiana’s facing,” said Graves.
With a panel set to convene on May 6th to decide the next step in drawing a map for the fall election, Graves wants to look at ways to improve infrastructure and reduce crime in his district.
“I think what’s most important is that we all come together, that we focus on the true needs of Louisiana, and that’s what we’re going to do. If people want to play games, they can play them by themselves,” said Graves.
The Secretary of State’s Office has set a May 15th deadline for a congressional map to be used in the fall election. Qualifying is mid-July.
Comments