The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Houston County, Georgia, alleging that its at-large election system for county commissioners violates the Voting Rights Act by disenfranchising Black voters. The lawsuit argues that the current system dilutes the electoral influence of Black voters, who represent nearly one-third of the county's electorate.
The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Houston County , Georgia , on Thursday, alleging that its at-large election system for county commissioners violates the Voting Rights Act by disenfranchising Black voters. The lawsuit, submitted in U.S. District Court, contends that Black voters, who represent nearly one-third of the county's electorate, face significant barriers to electing candidates of their choice under the current system.
The Justice Department argues that 'white voters cast their ballots sufficiently as a bloc to defeat Black voters' preferred candidate.'Houston County, home to 163,000 residents, currently elects its five commissioners through at-large elections. According to the Justice Department, this system dilutes the electoral influence of Black voters. The lawsuit claims that white voters consistently vote as a bloc, enabling them to block candidates favored by Black voters. This lack of fair representation has resulted in the historical underrepresentation of Black residents in county leadership, with only one Black commissioner elected since the Civil War. The present commission, chaired by Dan Perdue, is entirely white. Dan Perdue's father, Sonny Perdue, served as Georgia governor and U.S. agriculture secretary and now oversees Georgia's public universities.The Justice Department suggests that electing commissioners by district would offer fairer representation. The lawsuit asks a judge to halt countywide elections and require officials to adopt a new electoral system that ensures equitable participation for Black voters. In a statement issued on Thursday, county commissioners said they are reviewing the allegations and pledged to 'always follow the law.' The statement also noted that if officials find evidence supporting the Justice Department's claims, they will 'take appropriate action.' The lawsuit highlights the ongoing struggle for voting rights and equitable representation in the South. It is part of broader federal efforts to address racial inequities in governance across the United States.
Voting Rights Voting Rights Act Disenfranchisement Elections Georgia Houston County Department Of Justice Racial Equity
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