American politician, U.S. representative for Tennessee's 5th district since 2023
Tennessee Republicans have unveiled a new congressional map that dismantles a majority-Black district and is poised to secure an all‑GOP federal delegation, following a Supreme Court ruling that loosened protections under the Voting Rights Act. The plan splits Memphis-Shelby County and reshapes districts around Nashville, potentially removing Rep. Steve Cohen and strengthening Rep. Andy Ogles.
The Guardian reports that South Carolina’s proposed map redraw would dismantle James Clyburn’s district, a long-standing symbol of Black political representation in the state. The move comes as Republicans respond to the Supreme Court’s Voting Rights Act ruling, raising fears of renewed racial gerrymandering and a shift in power.
The South Carolina governor has signaled a special session on redistricting as Republicans push to redraw maps. Key issues include potentially eliminating Rep. Jim Clyburn’s Democratic seat and concerns about a “dummymander” that could dilute Black representation. The move follows pressure from Trump allies and intra-party splits among Republicans.
Rep. Cohen has announced he is stepping back from Congress amid controversy over mid-decade redistricting that splits his majority-Black Memphis district into three Republican-leaning districts. He says the map was drawn to beat him, and he may return if court actions restore his old district. Primary elections are set for Aug. 6.
Tennessee's political map is undergoing rapid changes after a Supreme Court ruling weakened minority protections. Republicans have redrawn districts to try to gain a larger House majority, with contests centering on Ogles, Pearson, and other incumbents. The state seeks a broader sweep in November as candidates clash over financing, endorsements, and district lines.
Trump-endorsed Rep. Andy Ogles has lost the Republican primary in Tennessee's 5th district to former agricultural commissioner Charlie Hatcher. The result follows a slate of primary upsets as Trump-backed candidates see mixed outcomes in several states.