Story perspectives

Tennessee House Approves Map Eliminating Black District, Protesters Outraged

5/7/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Tennessee House of Representatives approved a new congressional map that eliminates the state’s only majority-Black district, passing 64-25.
Governor Bill Lee called the special session after President Donald Trump urged state legislatures to redraw maps following the Supreme Court’s decision that weakened the Voting Rights Act.
Democratic lawmakers left the chamber in protest.
A lawmaker entered wearing a Trump 2024 flag as a cape, prompting loud protests.

1 of 1

Story summary

The Tennessee House of Representatives approved a new congressional map that eliminates the state’s only majority-Black district, passing 64-25.
Governor Bill Lee called the special session after President Donald Trump urged state legislatures to redraw maps following the Supreme Court’s decision that weakened the Voting Rights Act.
Democratic lawmakers left the chamber in protest.
A lawmaker entered wearing a Trump 2024 flag as a cape, prompting loud protests.