Lawmaker calls for Memphis to secede from Tennessee following redistricting
Source: Action News 5
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Tennessee State Representative Antonio Parkinson (D-Memphis) is calling on Memphis to secede from the state of Tennessee following a redistricted map that will likely ensure no Democratic representation in the state.
The House and Senate expeditiously passed the bill Thursday that will split Memphis into three separate districts.
This is no longer simply about maps, said Rep. Parkinson. This is about whether Memphis a majority-Black economic engine for this state is expected to continue contributing billions in tax revenue, culture, labor, and commerce while being systematically stripped of political power," Parkinson said.
Protestors lined the halls of the Tennessee State Capitol as lawmakers pushed the bill through, emboldened by a recent Supreme Court ruling that strips away gerrymandering protections from the Voting Rights Act.
Read more: https://www.actionnews5.com/2026/05/07/lawmaker-calls-memphis-secede-tennessee-following-redistricting/