COLUMBIA, S.C. (AP) — South Carolina state House members will begin comprehensive discussions Monday about redrawing the state’s congressional boundaries, launching what could be a contentious debate over whether to fulfill President Donald Trump’s request for a U.S. House map that might deliver all seats to Republicans.
Similar heated discussions have already occurred in Tennessee, Alabama and Louisiana as the GOP works aggressively to capitalize on a recent U.S. Supreme Court decision regarding race-based gerrymandering. This court decision has created opportunities for Republicans to restructure districts containing significant Black voter populations that opponents argue were originally crafted to ensure Democratic victories.
For South Carolina, this strategy involves going after the district currently represented by U.S. Rep. Jim Clyburn, who stands as the sole Democrat within the state’s seven-member House delegation.
Clyburn has stated he plans to continue serving regardless of any district modifications. During a recent meeting with reporters in Washington, he mentioned having residences in Columbia, Charleston and Santee, stating: “I live in three districts. I’ll decide which one to run in.”
Early voting for South Carolina’s statewide primary elections is set to start May 26, with the main primaries occurring June 9. Beyond congressional redistricting, proposed House legislation would shift U.S. House primaries to August. This bill requires Senate approval after passing the House.
Republican Gov. Henry McMaster, who convened the special legislative session for redistricting purposes, emphasized South Carolina’s need to send maximum Republican representation to Washington to help block potential Democratic House control and Trump impeachment efforts.
Nationally, Republicans currently lead the redistricting fight. Following Trump’s endorsement of Texas Republican redistricting efforts last year, the GOP believes it could secure up to 15 additional seats through new House maps across Texas, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Florida, Tennessee and Alabama. Democrats project gaining six seats from revised maps in California and Utah. However, legal challenges continue in several states, with voters ultimately determining election outcomes.
Additionally, courts have overturned Virginia’s redistricting attempt, a decision that likely preserved 4 Republican districts from elimination.
