York senator proposes new SC congressional map, but it won't progress
South Carolina Senator Michael Johnson proposed a new congressional map negotiated with the White House to retain Democratic Rep. James Clyburn in District 6, but withdrew the amendment, leaving the redistricting bill stalled as lawmakers race to meet a June 9 primary deadline. The Senate adjourned without voting, despite a special session called by Gov. Henry McMaster, while public opposition and internal Republican divisions complicate the process.
South Carolina lawmakers are under pressure to finalize a new congressional map after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled against Louisiana’s maps, reinforcing the Voting Rights Act’s protections. Senator Michael Johnson, R-York, introduced a revised map on May 21, claiming it was developed through negotiations with the White House. His proposal aimed to keep Rep. James Clyburn in the 6th District, avoiding a shift to District 2, while consolidating areas around Fort Mill. However, Johnson withdrew the amendment, stating concerns over the House-passed map, which would reshape districts by moving northern sections of Pickens, Greenville, and Spartanburg counties into District 5 and extending District 3 into Richland County. The Senate briefly debated the redistricting bill but adjourned without taking action, leaving the primary election date of June 9 as a tight deadline. Lawmakers, including Johnson, emphasized the urgency, with some senators willing to extend sessions through Memorial Day weekend if needed. The House had already approved a redistricting bill on May 20, prompting Gov. Henry McMaster to call a special session to address the issue. Johnson’s alternative map would have adjusted District 1 to include parts of the Lowcountry around Charleston and Mount Pleasant, while shifting sections of North Charleston into District 7. District 6 would have expanded westward into Calhoun County under his proposal. However, Sen. Darrell Jackson, D-Richland, criticized the involvement of the White House, questioning South Carolina’s autonomy in the process. Johnson denied pressure from the White House, insisting his goal was to unify communities. Public opposition to redistricting efforts was evident on May 21, with protesters rallying outside the statehouse under signs reading ‘Protect Our Vote.’ Meanwhile, the South Carolina Freedom Caucus renewed calls for a map favoring Republicans in District 6, currently held by Clyburn. The Senate plans to reconvene on May 22 at 10 a.m., but the bill’s future remains uncertain as lawmakers grapple with political divisions and legal constraints.
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