Tennessee’s New Map Tests Voting Power | Roanoke News

Tennessee’s congressional map faces its first major test today as voters head to the polls in a primary election reshaped by controversial redistricting. A key flashpoint: the split of Memphis’s majority-Black district, a move Republicans pushed through after a Supreme Court ruling weakened Voting Rights Act protections. Critics say it’s a deliberate effort to dilute Black voting power, turning Shelby County into three fragmented districts that stretch into rural areas. Longtime Rep. Steve Cohen is stepping aside from the redrawn Ninth District, opening the door for state Rep. Justin Pearson — a rising activist — to enter a crowded four-way race. Meanwhile, GOP Rep. Andy Ogles’s Fifth District has been dramatically expanded, crossing state lines and now includes new communities — while he faces a primary challenger. Voters also choose gubernatorial and Senate nominees, making this election day even more consequential amid the heated political realignment. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow: http://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/30e3ae0952a81a32