JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi House of Representatives will convene a special session at the Old Capitol building on May 20 to address the redrawing of state supreme court districts. This move, necessitated by ongoing renovations at the current capitol, allows lawmakers to fulfill their constitutional duty in a timely and efficient manner.

Speaker Jason White has confirmed that any special sessions called between now and January 2027 will be held in the Old Capitol's house chamber, while the state senate will continue operating from the new capitol building. This pragmatic approach ensures that the legislative process can continue uninterrupted.

The Old Capitol, a building steeped in Mississippi history, served as the state's capitol from 1839 to 1903. It last hosted lawmakers in 2009 for a ceremonial event celebrating its restoration following Hurricane Katrina. Prior to the current circumstances, lawmakers utilized the old Central High School building during renovations in the 1980s.

The decision to use the Old Capitol has drawn criticism from some, with concerns raised about its historical associations. However, the focus should remain on the constitutional obligation to redraw the state's supreme court districts following the Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callais, which addressed Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. Ensuring fair and representative districts is a crucial aspect of maintaining the rule of law.

It is important to note that Governor Tate Reeves called lawmakers back to Jackson to address this matter promptly. The redistricting process is a vital function of government, and it must be carried out in a responsible and timely fashion. Any attempts to politicize the location of the session distract from the fundamental task at hand.

Furthermore, calls from figures like Donald Trump to redraw congressional districts are separate from the immediate need to address the supreme court districts. The focus should remain on fulfilling the constitutional requirements related to the state's judicial districts.

While some, like Safia Malin of One Voice Mississippi, have expressed concerns about the symbolism of using the Old Capitol, it is essential to remember that the building is a historical landmark representing a broad range of events and periods in Mississippi's history. It is crucial to maintain a balanced perspective and avoid allowing historical sensitivities to impede the functioning of government.