Voting Rights
Supreme Court hears arguments on Voting Rights Act's future
Petra Hartmann Larawang ginawa ng AI
The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments in Callais v. Louisiana, a case that could restrict or end Section 2 of the 1965 Voting Rights Act. The arguments focused on whether creating majority-minority districts violates the 14th and 15th Amendments. Civil rights advocates warn of catastrophic consequences for multiracial democracy.
Senate Rejects Funding Bills, Heightening Shutdown Risk
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The U.S. Senate on September 20, 2025, rejected both a Republican-proposed stopgap funding bill and a Democratic alternative, escalating the chances of a partial government shutdown starting October 1. The House-passed measure aimed to extend funding through November 21, while the competing proposal sought a shorter extension to October 31 with additional provisions. With lawmakers departing for a break and no resolution in sight, partisan divisions over spending and policy riders continue to stall progress ahead of the September 30 fiscal deadline.
Supreme Court examines Louisiana redistricting under Voting Rights Act
Iniulat ng AI Larawang ginawa ng AI
The U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments on October 15, 2025, in Callais v. Louisiana, a case challenging whether creating a second majority-Black congressional district violates the Constitution. Conservative justices appeared inclined to limit Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, potentially allowing Republicans to gain up to 19 House seats. The ruling could reshape minority representation in Congress.
Beto O’Rourke hails court victory over Texas attorney general
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A Texas appeals court ruled against Attorney General Ken Paxton’s lawsuit targeting Beto O’Rourke’s nonprofit Powered by People, protecting its free speech rights. O’Rourke views the decision as a defense of democratic principles amid Republican efforts to redraw electoral maps. He warns that Democrats must win the 2026 midterms to check authoritarian consolidation.
California Prop 50 draws scrutiny over mail‑in ballot privacy as Nov. 4 special election nears
Petra Hartmann Fact checked
California voters will decide Proposition 50 in a statewide special election on November 4, a legislatively referred constitutional amendment that would temporarily replace the state’s independent congressional map. The measure has sparked new claims about mail‑in ballot privacy; state election officials say the envelopes are secure and include accessibility features.
USPS postmark changes affect California mail-in ballots
Recent U.S. Postal Service changes are prompting warnings for mail-in voters in California ahead of a special election on congressional redistricting. Officials urge returning ballots early to ensure timely postmarks. The adjustments stem from USPS reorganization efforts that delay mail processing in some areas.