Tennessee Republicans unveiled a new congressional map on May 6 that slices Memphis, a majority‑Black city, into three districts. The change follows a Supreme Court ruling that tightened the definition of a racial gerrymander. By redistributing Shelby County, the GOP seeks to flip the state’s lone Democratic seat, home to Steve Cohen for the 2026 midterms.

Critics argue the map echoes Jim Crow‑era tactics, accusing the supermajority of eroding Black voter influence. Democratic lawmakers and civil‑rights leaders have staged protests outside the Capitol, demanding the plan be halted. Republicans defend the move as a legal response to the court’s decision, claiming it preserves partisan balance for the upcoming 2026 congressional elections.

The proposed map redraws the Ninth Congressional District to stretch eastward along the Tennessee‑Mississippi border, potentially unseating incumbent Steve Cohen. It also removes Nashville’s Davidson County from the current Republican‑held Fifth District, reshaping the political map of Middle Tennessee. A legal challenge is expected once the legislature signs the bill before the 2026 midterms.

If passed, the map will trigger immediate lawsuits under the Voting Rights Act, as Shelby County’s demographic shift contravenes federal protections. Investors watch closely, as congressional redistricting can alter campaign finance flows, incumbency advantage, and policy priorities. The decision will likely influence party strategies nationwide ahead of the 2026 midterms for the upcoming election cycle.