CBC’s Statement on Evenwel v. Abbott U.S. Supreme Court Decision

WASHINGTON, D.C. – This week, the United States Supreme Court decided unanimously to uphold redistricting practices that ensure fair and democratic representation for all citizens in America in Evenwel v. Abbott.  The petitioner challenged voting protections that were put in place for non-voters including children and minors under the age of 18.  Today, CBC Chairman G. K. Butterfield (NC-01) made the following statement on the ruling:

“I am pleased with the Supreme Court’s decision to uphold a practice that ensures equal representation for Americans in legislative districts.  The Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment underscores the importance of the recognized principle of ‘one person, one vote’ within our democracy.  Had the petitioners prevailed, ineligible voters would have been completely ignored, especially children and minors under age 18.  Without this protection, 22 percent of the U.S. population under 18 would be left out of our democracy—that would impact 30 percent of African Americans.  This reminds us that our voting system is at risk of returning to the old practices of oppression.  We must continue to ensure that our system maintains the fabric of equal representation for all Americans.

“I took an oath to represent all of my constituents, not just those who are able to vote.  The Court’s ruling is the best solution to help us continue to do our jobs and keep our communities moving forward.  We must protect and uphold the integrity of our democracy to ensure that no individual, regardless of their age, race, or political affiliation is marginalized.  Our country is best served when everyone is counted and when everyone has an equal opportunity to participate in our democratic process.  I urge our officials at the federal, state, and local levels to continue on a path to expand voting rights and to stop efforts to limit representation.  The Constitution requires that our democracy accounts for everyone in each congressional district and state legislative districts should value that same principle.”