Georgia lawmakers abandon redistricting plan after protests

Georgia Republican legislators halted a special session on redistricting after protests by Black leaders and civil-rights activists in Atlanta. The session, called by Governor Brian Kemp, was intended to redraw congressional maps ahead of the 2028 election to favor Republicans, following a recent Supreme Court decision that reduced Voting Rights Act protections for Black representation. Demonstrators gathered in the city, historically linked to the civil-rights movement, to oppose the proposed changes, prompting lawmakers to defer the agenda.

"We will not allow a process that dilutes Black voting strength," said a spokesperson for a coalition of civil-rights groups.

The decision delays any immediate changes to the state's congressional districts.