Mississippi Senate Advances New Redistricting Plan

The Mississippi Senate has passed a legislative district redraw plan, requiring 10 special elections in November if it gains approval from the full Legislature and a federal court. This follows a 2024 federal court order that identified previous redistricting as diluting Black voting power. The plan, which passed 33-16, creates new majority-Black districts in DeSoto and Forrest counties, with no incumbents in these areas. Some incumbents, such as Sen. Michael McLendon and Sen. Reginald Jackson, now share the same district, raising concerns about transparency and fairness. Sen. John Polk has announced his retirement, while others like Sen. Chris Johnson will compete in redrawn districts. Senate Rules Committee Chairman Dean Kirby has emphasized compliance with federal law and greater consultation in the process.