Kamala Harris is traveling to New Orleans on Aug. 7 to address Louisiana‘s redistricting decision. Harris will headline as keynote speaker at the annual Democratic Party fundraising gala in New Orleans as she responds to the recent Supreme Court ruling in Louisiana v. Callais, which shifts congressional districts in the South, Newslooks reported.
What are critics saying about Louisiana’s redistricting efforts?
The Supreme Court ruling is facing major pushback from voting rights advocates who say the decision to redraw congressional districts is designed to silence Black voters. Critics say the number of majority-Black districts will be reduced by this decision and the communities in those districts will lose representation in Congress.
Harris has already spoken up against the ruling, describing the decision as “backdooring racism through politics.” As she addresses her colleagues at the upcoming event in August, Harris will discuss plans to fight back against redistricting and preserve Black representation in Congress.
In recent months, Harris has been discussing the Supreme Court’s decision privately with legislators, including Congressional Black Caucus members. Louisiana Reps. Troy Carter and Cleo Fields are among the legislators who have already met with Harris to discuss the issue, Axios reported.
Kamala Harris fueling speculation about a 2028 presidential campaign
As she continues to speak up for Black representation, Harris is also fueling more speculation about a possible 2028 presidential campaign. After coming up short in the 2024 election, Harris appears to be aiming to strengthen her relationship with Black voters and possibly gearing up for another presidential run, Newslooks reported.
Early polling results show Harris getting a favorable response from Black voters compared to other candidates. Harris’ Louisiana appearance is expected to bring more support from Black voters for the former vice president.
Harris also made another appearance in New Orleans earlier this year when she attended the swearing-in ceremony for Mayor Helena Moreno.