NASHVILLE, Tenn. — The Tennessee legislature, controlled by Republicans, has approved a new congressional district map, a move intended to better reflect the state's conservative values in its representation in Washington. The decision comes after a Supreme Court ruling that clarified the application of the Voting Rights Act.

The redistricting plan affects Tennessee's 9th congressional district, which previously encompassed Memphis. The new map divides the district into three, each incorporating roughly one-third of the city's Black voters. This adjustment aims to create more competitive districts that accurately reflect the state's overall political leanings.

With the new maps in place, all nine of Tennessee's congressional districts are expected to lean Republican, aligning the state's congressional delegation with its strong conservative base. The previous 9th district occupied the southwestern corner of the state, whereas the new districts extend from Memphis, with two reaching into Nashville's suburbs.

During legislative debate, Democratic State Representative Vincent Dixie questioned the need for redistricting, asking, "If Republican policies are so great, why are we changing the lines to rig elections?" However, Republicans maintain that the changes are necessary to ensure fair and accurate representation.

State Representative Justin Jones voiced strong opposition, criticizing House Speaker Cameron Sexton and making controversial gestures. His proposed amendments were ruled untimely by the speaker.

The redistricting follows the Supreme Court's decision in Callais v. Landry, which clarified the scope of the Voting Rights Act, providing states with greater flexibility in drawing congressional districts. Tennessee had previously resisted calls for mid-decade redistricting, including those from Donald Trump, awaiting clarity from the court.

House Speaker Sexton stated that the redraw will "ensure the state's representation in Washington reflects its conservative values." In the 2024 presidential election, Donald Trump won Tennessee by a significant margin, garnering 64% of the vote compared to Kamala Harris's 34%.

While approximately one-third of Tennessee voters cast ballots for a Democratic congressional representative in 2024, Republicans currently hold eight of the state's nine congressional seats, indicating a preference for conservative leadership.