October 21, 2025
The Supreme Court, the Voting Rights Act, and the Importance of Staying Engaged
Interim President
During oral arguments last week over a core provision of the Voting Rights Act, the U.S. Supreme Court appeared inclined to limit the use of the landmark law to force states to draw electoral districts favorable to minority voters.
Disturbingly, it seems likely the court’s conservative majority will vote to effectively strike down a Black majority House district in Louisiana because the state legislature relied too heavily on race while drawing the map in accordance with Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act. Lawyers for Louisiana and the Trump administration want that to happen. A ruling for Louisiana could open the door for legislatures to redraw congressional maps across the South, essentially stealing the voice and self-determination of Black and Latino voters to further short-term political goals. The ruling would also make it much harder, if not impossible, to take account of race in future redistricting cycles, impacting elections from local school board seats to members of the U.S. House.
As one of the most influential pieces of civil rights legislation in American history, the Voting Rights Act has protected citizens’ ability to participate in the electoral process for decades. As we have seen over the last two decades, an ever-narrowing interpretation of the VRA makes it easier for states to implement laws that restrict access to the ballot box. This latest attack on this critical law comes at a time when concerns about voter suppression, gerrymandering, and the integrity of the electoral process are at an all-time high.
With mid-term elections just around the corner, the stakes couldn’t be higher, but it’s important not to overlook this year’s state elections in November. There are key elections taking place throughout the country. The outcome of these elections will shape the political landscape in these states. The individuals elected will inherit the responsibility of defending state and local interests—not just against federal overreach, but also in setting proactive policy agendas.
The right to vote is both a privilege and a responsibility. History has shown that elections can be decided by handfuls of votes, and when turnout is low, the results may not reflect the will of the broader community. Participating in every election, no matter how small the race, helps ensure that government reflects the needs and values of all its constituents. If you have an election in your state, please make sure to exercise your right to vote. You can look up what is on your ballot here.
Beyond voting, there’s an urgent need for civic engagement as poll workers. Poll workers are the backbone of our democracy, ensuring that elections run smoothly and securely. Across the country, election officials are reporting shortages of poll workers, which can lead to longer lines, confusion, and even precinct closures. Volunteering as a poll worker is a direct way to support free and fair elections and to help your neighbors exercise their rights.
In the midst of this administration’s all-out assault on the rule of law, our network has been engaged and seeking out opportunities to get involved in their communities to fight for our democracy. ACS has heard from network members who are interested in running for office or are considering finding their way to elected service. I hope those of you who share that interest listen to our recent Broken Law Podcast, So You’re Thinking of Running for Office…, which featured Rebecca Dussich of Buckeye Justice Forum and ACS Senior Director of Program and Policy Lindsay Langholz discussing the impact of down ballot elected officials, particularly judicial officials, and what potential candidates should consider as they approach a possible run for office.
As the Supreme Court weighs its decision on a key section of the Voting Rights Act and the country prepares for another election, let’s remember that democracy depends on participation. The ACS network is active and strong and has continued to speak out this year against attacks on our democracy, the rule of law and so many of our freedoms, including Freedom of Speech. As we rapidly approach the end of 2025, I continue to encourage you to lean into our progressive community and stay engaged. We need your ongoing support as we defend our principles, institutions and profession, but we also need you as we prepare for the future. Change takes time, but we must start planting the seeds now for a more inclusive democracy and fairer justice system that benefits everyone.