Local congressional district map causes controversy

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A local congressional district is causing major controversy, potentially creating change for thousands of voters from Charlotte to Greensboro.
 
A federal court struck down Districts 12 and 1 on Friday, saying they are unconstitutional based on race.
 
Since the congressional maps were redrawn in 2011, they've been in and out of court ever since. But Friday's late news surprised political experts.
 
"It certainly was not expected on a late Friday evening, kind of a bombshell," Dr. Michael Bitzer, a professor and political scientist at Catawba College, said.
 
Sen. Bob Rucho drew the lines with Rep. David Lewis and in a joint statement they said the "trial courts 11th hour decision throws an election underway into turmoil."
 
Political experts said there are now many questions unanswered, with a primary just weeks away.
 
"It is certainly unprecedented to have this kind of decision so close to an election," Bitzer said.
 
According to the State Board of Elections, more than 400 absentee votes have already been sent in and now their future is up in the air.
 
The Supreme Court could step in and put a hold on the decision. But in the meantime, lawmakers will have to get back to work and come up with new districts so people all across the state will know who representatives them and who wants to.

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