Today, Georgia Republicans announced after massive backlash that they will not pursue redistricting to exploit the gutting of the VRA during the special legislative session. The Democratic Party of Georgia joined Democratic legislative leaders and an expansive coalition of advocacy, faith, and civil rights organizations to oppose Republican redistricting efforts, including organizing voters to call Governor Kemp and their Republican legislators to urge them to oppose redistricting. In response to the announcement, DPG Chair Charlie Bailey released the following statement:
“Georgia Republicans thought they could get away with exploiting the gutting of the Voting Rights Act to dilute Black voters’ power and avoid accountability to the people. But the people of Georgia stood up and said: not so damn fast. This is a victory for democracy, civil rights, and fair representation, and it’s because Georgians came together and raised their voices.
“The massive wave of mobilization that brought this victory is just a preview of what is to come in November. As Georgia Republicans continue trying to dodge accountability for their devastating agenda that is raising costs and kicking thousands off their health care, Georgia Democrats will continue building an undeniable movement – one that ensures Republicans pay for their devastating records at the ballot box in November.”
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