The American Democracy Minute Radio News Report & Podcast for Aug. 13, 2026
The U.S. Supreme Court majority’s April 29th Callais decision invalidated use of race for redistricting, and sent some GOP-led states running to redraw congressional maps to dilute Black voting power. August 11th, Alabama ran a second state primary with its restored, discriminatory maps.
When the Supreme Court ruled on Callais, early voting for Alabama’s May 19th primary had already begun using Voting Rights Act-compliant maps. Alabama then asked to restore a 2023 legislature-drawn map, found twice by courts to be discriminatory. But the U.S. Supreme Court allowed it anyway, possibly eliminating the chance a Black congressional candidate being elected in a state with a 27% population of African Americans. Gov. Kay Ivey called a special session to redistrict, invalidated already cast congressional votes in four districts, and called the special primary election, estimated to cost $4.45 million taxpayer dollars.
The Alabama Reflector reports the August 11th primary advanced Republican Jerry Carl and incumbent Democrat Clyde Jones, Jr. in District 1. In the now GOP-leaning District 2, Republican Rhett Marques will face U.S. Representative Shomari Figures. In GOP stronghold District 6, U.S. Rep. Gary Palmer will be challenged by Democrat Maurice Mercer. In the only competitive congressional district, Democratic Rep. Terry Sewell and Republican Ammie Akin will compete in November. Turnout for the special election was only 5.24 percent.
We’ve linked to more at AmericanDemocracyMinute.org. I’m Brian Beihl.
Today’s Links
Articles & Resources:
Alabama Reflector – Alabama special primary round-up: Low turnout, few surprises in congressional races
PBS Newhour/AP – All About Redistricting
WSFA – How much will the special primary election cost Alabama?
BallotPedia – Redistricting in Alabama ahead of the 2026 elections
Related ADM Reports:
American Democracy Minute – Callais Decision Fallout as Louisiana, Tennessee, Alabama & South Carolina Scramble to Eliminate Black Congressional Districts
American Democracy Minute – Federal Court Panel Rejects Alabama Congressional Map -Again- as Intentional Discrimination. State Officials Appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court.
American Democracy Minute – U.S. Supreme Court Stays Lower Court Order Which Created Another Alabama Majority-Black Voting District – An Order It Previously Upheld
Groups Taking Action:
Register or Check Your Voter Registration:
U.S. Election Assistance Commission – Register And Vote in Your State
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