Mississippi Senate creates select committee on redistricting

Mississippi Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann announced Thursday the creation of a Senate Select Committee on Redistricting and Reapportionment. The panel was formed in response to the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in Louisiana v. Callais and the decision by Gov. Tate Reeves not to call a special session on redistricting, Hosemann’s office said.

The governor announced Wednesday he would not convene lawmakers for a special session after the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals vacated a liability order in a state Supreme Court judicial redistricting case earlier this week. Reeves said he expects the legislature to handle redistricting for congressional and legislative districts before the 2027 elections.

Hosemann named Senate President Pro Tem Dean Kirby to lead the new committee. The panel will include eight Republicans and two Democrats, with members Senators Kirby, Briggs Hopson, Josh Harkins, Brice Wiggins, Jeremy England, Lane Taylor, Mike Thompson, Daniel Sparks, Derrick Simmons, and Angela Turner Ford.

Hosemann said the committee will gather information, review data, and evaluate redistricting options in light of the Callais decision. The Senate leader expressed confidence in the panel’s work and looks forward to its recommendations.

Last week, House Speaker Jason White also established a select committee on redistricting, emphasizing transparency, fairness, and legal compliance in districting processes. Both chambers aim to ensure Mississippi is prepared for future reapportionment efforts.

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