Congressman Thompson Statement on Louisiana v. Callais Supreme Court Decision

Congressman Thompson Statement on Louisiana v. Callais Supreme Court Decision

Washington, D.C. - Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS) released the following statement regarding the Supreme Court's decision in Louisiana v. Callis.

"Today's decision from the Supreme Court of the United States is a direct assault on the voting rights movement. The decision represents a significant erosion of voting protections and a dangerous rollback of the Voting Rights Act.

"For decades, Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act has been a cornerstone of voting rights law, prohibiting racial discrimination in voting. The decision defies longstanding legislative intent. This decision also dishonors the legacy of voting rights activists, some of whom paid the ultimate sacrifice for citizens of our state to have equal representation and to participate in fair elections.

"Mississippi's history of racial exclusion in education, housing, public accommodations, and voting is well documented. This decision creates opportunities for people of ill will to do harm to nearly 40% of Mississippi's population. If equal representation were truly being protected, we would not see legal protections narrowed by an activist court. The right to vote is fundamental, and I remain committed to ensuring every citizen has an equal voice in our democracy."