What DOJ Tossing Texas' Redistricting Plan Means For Rick Perry

[babylonsister]

What DOJ Tossing Texas' Redistricting Plan Means For Rick Perry
Ryan J. Reilly | September 20, 2011, 6:30AM


As if Rick Perry needed another reason to dislike the federal government.

The Justice Department's decision to oppose the redistricting plan Perry signed as Governor of Texas is raising questions over whether he and state Republicans tried to dilute the voter power of Latinos by gerrymandering them into particular districts.

DOJ's opening serve sets the scene for a major court battle over how the lines will be drawn in the Lone Star state. Federal attorneys are expected to offer more details of their objections in a filing Tuesday and in federal court in D.C. on Wednesday.

snip//

"It's a shame that Governor Perry and his Republican colleagues are more interested in protecting their own political futures than the voting rights of their constituents," said Texas Democratic Party spokewoman Rebecca Acuna.

"The Perry-signed state house and congressional maps attempted to diminish the political voice of the communities responsible for the state's population growth. The maps are a desperate attempt by Republicans to latch on to power by any means necessary," Acuna said.

more...

http://tpmmuckraker.talkingpointsmemo.com/2011/09/feds_v_rick_perry_what_dojs_dismissal_of_texas_red.php?ref=fpa

[Cirque du So-What]

1. To those who grouse about 'no difference' between the two major political parties

Under a repug administration, efforts to diminish and dilute the political power of 'the opposition' wouldn't merit so much as a cursory glance. The DOJ would probably be working overtime to help quash dissent over the issue.

[WhiteTara]

3. Isn't that the truth. Laltely I've been hearing that Nadirite crap

of the "lesser evil"...what fool wants a greater evil?

[Richardo]

2. "Whether" they tried to dilute Latino votes? That's a given.