Feinstein Opposes Justice Department Decision to Drop Opposition to Texas Voting Changes

Washington—Senate Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Dianne Feinstein (D-Calif.) today released the following statement in reaction to the Justice Department’s decision to drop its legal objection to Texas again being required to clear changes to its voting laws with the Justice Department:

“The Justice Department’s reversal in yet another key case with implications for voting rights is alarming. Rather than ensure voting rights are protected, the mission of the Justice Department under this administration is to pave the way for widespread disenfranchisement. The Justice Department must protect—not undermine—the right to vote.

“Texas has among the most restrictive voting laws in the country and the lowest voter participation. Its redistricting maps have repeatedly been struck down by federal courts for diluting the power of African American and Hispanic voters. Yet, the Justice Department is taking the position that Texas should not be required to get approval for changes to its voting laws or its redistricting plans.

“It’s telling that career officials refused to sign the brief arguing for this position. This is a crass political decision that fails to protect each American's fundamental right to vote.”

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