The 2010 census results are indicating population changes in geographical regions both on a national and state level. These demographic changes are requiring modifications to both state and federal congressional districts. In other words, this means changes in the number of Louisiana U.S. Representatives and state Senators & Representatives including changes in the geographical area each will represent.

In Louisiana, this redistricting plan falls under the jurisdiction of the House and Governmental Affairs Committee. A good basic description of this process can be seen here. Another good description which explains some of the specific issues related to the 2011 redistricting can be seen here.

The committee began a series of nine public hearings, on February 17, 2011. These hearings are opportunities for citizens to express desires and concerns to the committee regarding the redistricting plan. One such hearing is planned for Monroe on March 1, 2011, 10:00 a.m. at the Monroe Civic Center. NELTP is encouraging everyone to attend this hearing to express our ideas to the committee to develope a plan that is fair and good for the state.

One complicaton in re-drawing the district maps is related to the fact that Louisiana is losing a U. S. Representative seat based on the 2010 federal census. Louisiana had seven (7) seats but, it will be reduced to six (6). This means that one sitting representative will be eliminated. Obviously, no one wishes to give up their seat. Therefore, this provides reason for debate and negotiation.

Another issue involved in re-drawing the districts is related to Louisiana’s majority-minority district. Apparently, a majority-minority district must be maintained to be in compliance with the Voting Rights Act. This must be accomplished in a manner not considered unconstitutional by the U. S. Supreme Court.

The following are some of the different groups looking at redistricting plans and analyzing the political implications of those plans:
Louisiana Family Forum (A plan for state congressional districts)
Red Racing Horses
Swing State Project (scroll down below “Florida”)

Recently, Paul Hurd (with some contribution from Kevin Unter) spoke at an NELTP meeting concerning Louisiana redistricting. Paul and Kevin address the process and some of the considerations involved in re-drawing the congressional districts as can be seen in the following videos.

Part 1

Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Part 5

Again, NELTP encourages everyone to attend the public hearing(s) or to contact your congressman to express your views concerning this important matter of congressional redistricting.

Also, please express to us your ideas for a redistricting plan by posting a comment. Paul Hurd has volunteered to be a spokesperson for NELTP at the Monroe hearing and needs your feedback in order to communicate your ideas to the committee.

REMINDER: You must be logged-in with your user name and password to comment and vote (you will not see the vote selection nor comment box). To log-in click here. Then return here to make a comment and cast your vote.