Justice Department sues Texas over redistricting maps that dilute minority votes

The Justice Department sues Texas on December 6, 2021, challenging the state's congressional and legislative redistricting plans under the Voting Rights Act. The department alleges that the maps dilute the voting strength of Latino and Black voters despite the state's growth being driven by communities of color. Texas officials defend the maps and deny unlawful discrimination. The lawsuit follows the first redistricting cycle after the 2020 census and after Shelby County removed preclearance for Texas. The case tests whether Section 2 can address racial vote dilution when fast-growing communities of color are denied corresponding electoral power.