A plan that gives Texas more representation in Washington is getting its day in court.
A new congressional redistricting map, drawn to give Texas four more seats in Congress because of population growth, is the subject of several lawsuits before a three-judge panel in San Antonio Tuesday. Plaintiffs argue the map illegally dilutes minority voting strength.
Texas Attorney General Greg Abbott, whose office serves as the state's attorney, contends the map maintains or increases the ability of minority voters to elect their candidate of choice in each district.
The Republican-led Legislature drew the map, which would likely allow for the election of more Republicans.
The three-judge panel says the trial will last nine days. Proceedings have been sped up to meet several election deadlines before the March 2012 primary.
