The Wisconsin Supreme Court, which currently has a liberal majority, rejected a lawsuit by Democrats seeking to challenge the state’s congressional maps.
This decision, a victory for Republicans, maintains the existing congressional district boundaries for the upcoming November election.
Legal Context:
This decision follows a ruling in December where the court ordered new legislative maps, deeming the Republican-drawn ones unconstitutional.
In response, the GOP-controlled Legislature passed maps drawn by Democratic Governor Tony Evers, signed into law on February 19. Despite hopes that the court would revisit the congressional map challenge in light of the legislative maps ruling, the court declined to hear the case.
Justice’s Recusal:
Justice Janet Protasiewicz, whose election last year shifted the court’s balance in favor of liberals, did not participate in the decision. Although there was a request for her to recuse, Protasiewicz clarified that she abstained because she was not part of the court when the case originated.
Democratic U.S. Rep. Mark Pocan expressed disappointment with the decision, emphasizing concerns about representation fairness in a closely divided state. Conversely, conservative groups welcomed the court’s action, asserting that the matter was settled and there was no need for further redrawing congressional maps.
Implications and Timeline:
With a tight deadline for the November election, the court’s decision maintains the status quo.
Wisconsin’s elections commission has stressed the importance of setting district boundaries by mid-March to meet various deadlines for election officials and candidates.
Political Landscape:
The current congressional maps, drawn by Governor Evers and approved by the state Supreme Court, have faced scrutiny.
Before the Republican redrawing in 2010, Democrats held a majority of seats. Currently, six out of eight seats are held by Republicans, with only two considered competitive.
Targeted Districts:
National Democrats have set their sights on the 1st and 3rd congressional districts, both seen as potential battlegrounds despite leaning towards Republicans.
The 1st District, represented by Republican Rep. Bryan Steil, and the 3rd District, represented by Republican Rep. Derrick Van Orden, have attracted attention in recent elections.