The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against Houston County, Georgia, claiming that the county’s current at-large system for electing commissioners undermines the rights of Black voters. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Georgia, argues that the at-large election method makes it more difficult for Black citizens to participate in the political process and elect candidates of their choice, thus violating the Voting Rights Act.
Under the at-large system, Houston County’s five commission seats are elected countywide, which has led to Black residents having less opportunity to influence the election results. According to the Justice Department, if commissioners were elected from districts that are fairly drawn, Black voters would have an equal chance to elect representatives that reflect their interests.
Black residents make up more than 31% of the county’s voting-age population, yet only one Black commissioner has been elected since the Civil War. The lawsuit seeks a change in the election method, pushing for single-member districts that would allow for a fairer representation of Houston County’s diverse population.
Houston County, home to 163,000 people, has previously been under investigation by the Justice Department regarding its election practices. In a statement, the Houston County Board of Commissioners acknowledged the investigation and discussions with the Justice Department, but also noted their concerns about the timing of the lawsuit as the country transitions between presidential administrations.
While the commissioners expressed openness to making changes if a violation is found, they have yet to take further action.
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