A public hearing on Mississippi’s redistricting efforts at Alcorn State University drew strong opposition to proposed race-neutral district maps, with only one speaker supporting the idea, according to reports.
During the meeting, nearly 20 individuals shared their views on the upcoming legislative and congressional redistricting, which follows a U.S. Supreme Court decision declaring racial gerrymandering unconstitutional under the Voting Rights Act. State Senator Dean Kirby, chairman of the Joint Committee on Redistricting and Reapportionment, explained that the committee will redraw lines for congressional and state legislative districts, while judicial boundaries will be handled separately.
James P. McKenny, chair of Warren County’s Republican Committee, was the sole supporter of race-neutral redistricting. He argued that Mississippi’s Second Congressional District was created in 1982 by federal judges to ensure minority representation. McKenny said the current district, which covers parts of 30 counties, limits competition and constitutes voter suppression, calling it illegal under recent court rulings.
Most opposition came from Black residents and critics who questioned the need and expense of mid-decade redistricting. Former State Legislator Walter Brown urged lawmakers to wait until after the 2030 Census, citing concerns that redistricting could reopen racial divides. Joyce Mathis described the maps as divisive and outdated, arguing they hinder progress and promote exclusion.
Other speakers, including House Minority Leader Robert Johnson and State Rep. Jeffrey Harness, expressed concern that the effort is racially motivated and driven by political interests. Johnson emphasized the state’s nearly 40% Black population and called for more minority representation, while Harness pointed out that the Callais decision did not mandate redistricting, suggesting political motives are at play. One speaker sarcastically criticized the process, claiming it serves the interests of white lawmakers and President Trump, and received applause from attendees.
Many critics suggested redirecting funds from redistricting toward addressing local needs such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. The committee plans to continue listening sessions across Mississippi in the coming weeks, with stops scheduled in Meridian, Hattiesburg, Biloxi, and Jackson.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
