The Supreme Court decision striking down a key provision of the Voting Rights Act could scramble Fulton County politics, giving conservative white residents in the county’s northern end a greater say in local affairs.
But the fundamental tensions of a county divided along racial, geographic and partisan lines likely aren’t going away and might be inflamed by the court’s ruling.
Even as some north Fulton residents rejoiced over a ruling Tuesday that appears to allow new County Commission districts to take effect immediately, opponents are considering a lawsuit that could tie up Fulton’s political boundaries in costly and lengthy litigation. And while the Supreme Court’s ruling could make it harder to win that fight, opponents say they’re no less committed to the cause.
“The war ain’t over,” said Democratic Commissioner Bill Edwards, who opposes the new districts. “The war is definitely not over.”
This spring the Georgia General Assembly redrew County Commission boundaries to create a new north Fulton district and eliminate an at-large seat held by Democrat Robb Pitts. The new district lines also place Edwards and fellow Democratic incumbent Emma Darnell in the same district.
The result likely would increase the number of Republicans on the seven-member commission from two to three. And Republicans could win a majority if they capture the chairman’s post in next year’s elections.
via Voting rights decision could shake up Fulton politics | www.myajc.com.
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