Redistricting map fight heats up in SC, more discussions in GA

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) -Redistricting is back in the spotlight after a heated showdown at the South Carolina State House, as leaders in Georgia watch what could happen next across the region.

In South Carolina, lawmakers moved Tuesday to redraw the state’s seven congressional districts, but the debate intensified as protesters were removed from the State House and Republican leaders split over what a new map could mean in November.

Senate Majority Leader Shane Massey said he does not want redistricting to cost Republicans seats, framing it as a national power fight.

“I don’t want Hakeem Jeffries as Speaker of the House,” Massey said. “I think the best chance that South Carolina has to prevent that from happening is with our current maps.”

In Georgia, the conversation over map lines has also been active. In a sit-down interview with, U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter of Georgia’s 1st District said he supports a recent Supreme Court decision, saying districts should not be drawn based on race.

“Georgians should not have to suffer through the next two years with districts that were written with the intentional racial discrimination,” Carter said. “And these were written, the Supreme Court has said, as unconstitutional.”

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson said redistricting remains a major concern, particularly for communities that have fought for fair representation.

“Obviously, it’s very concerning, particularly for individuals who have fought long and hard to ensure that the voices are all heard at the ballot box,” Johnson said.

South Carolina lawmakers are facing a tight timeline as their session ends this week. Senators failed to pass a measure that would have allowed them to call themselves back after session, meaning any further work on redistricting would likely require a special session called by the governor.