Tennessee is debating whether to redraw congressional districts before the next census, including proposals that could change representation around Memphis and the state's only majority-Black congressional district. Mid-decade redistricting is generally lawful when a map complies with federal and state law, but it can let the party in power alter electoral boundaries after voters have already used them and can raise claims of vote dilution. The choice is whether maps should remain stable for a decade, be drawn by an independent commission, be revised by legislators under safeguards, or go to voters when a mid-decade change is proposed. Voters should choose their representatives, not watch representatives repeatedly redesign their voters. A map should change mid-decade only for a clear legal or broadly supported public reason.
When, if ever, should Tennessee redraw congressional districts between censuses?