Georgia Gov. Kemp Calls Special Session for Redistricting

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp on Wednesday called a special session of the state legislature starting June 17 to redraw congressional and legislative district maps for the 2028 elections, following a U.S. Supreme Court decision in Louisiana v. Callais. The session will also address a new law banning QR codes on ballots set to take effect in July.

The proclamation cited the Supreme Court ruling, which state officials said necessitates new maps to comply with changes to the Voting Rights Act. Kemp previously stated, "It's clear that Callais requires Georgia to adopt new electoral maps before the 2028 election cycle." He described the decision as restoring fairness to the redistricting process and allowing states to create maps that reflect voters' will rather than federal judges' preferences. Changes will not affect the 2026 elections, as early voting is underway.

Republicans, who hold a 9-5 majority in Georgia's congressional delegation, view the opportunity to adjust boundaries, particularly around metro Atlanta and U.S. Rep. Sanford Bishop's district, seen as a potential GOP pickup. State Republican Chairman Josh McCoon urged prioritizing traditional principles such as...