Off The Record: The latest rumors and rumblings in North Alabama
Redistricting rows
Keep an eye on Alabama’s ongoing redistricting battles – the ripple effects could be far bigger than most people realize. After the U.S. Supreme Court forced the state to draw a new Black opportunity district in 2023, Alabama has been fighting challenges to its congressional lines, state Senate districts, and even county commission maps under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. But an upcoming Supreme Court ruling in Louisiana v. Callais could upend the entire landscape. If Section 2 is rolled back, lawmakers would likely be required to redraw the congressional map as early as summer 2026. Meanwhile, legislative leaders are already preparing: Sen. Garlan Gudger has filed a bill allowing Gov. Kay Ivey to set special primaries as late as August for any redrawn districts.
Primary polls peek…