September 28, 2025

Louisiana Solicitor General to Argue Redistricting Case in Supreme Court

News Summary

Louisiana Solicitor General J. Benjamin Aguiñaga will present the state’s arguments in the Callais v. Louisiana case regarding the legality of maintaining majority-Black voting districts. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision, set for October 15, 2025, could reshape voting rights and redistricting across the nation. Aguiñaga faces opposition from civil rights lawyers as Louisiana shifts its stance on race-based districting. The case’s outcome will have significant implications for minority representation and the application of the Voting Rights Act.

Baton Rouge

Louisiana’s Solicitor General, J. Benjamin Aguiñaga, is set to present the state’s case regarding congressional redistricting before the U.S. Supreme Court on October 15, 2025. The case, known as Callais v. Louisiana, will address whether Louisiana can lawfully maintain two majority-Black voting districts for the U.S. House in accordance with the Voting Rights Act.

Aguiñaga, appointed as Solicitor General by Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill in January 2024, is 35 years old and has a background in legal advocacy and civil rights. He obtained his degree from the Paul M. Hebert Law Center at LSU in 2015. His legal experience includes clerking for prominent federal judges, including U.S. Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito. In his current role, Aguiñaga represents Louisiana in several significant lawsuits that may affect policies related to gun control, abortion, and voting rights.

The Supreme Court’s decision in this case holds the potential for nationwide implications, particularly concerning minority voting rights. Aguiñaga will argue that the establishment of a second majority-Black district is unconstitutional. This marks a shift in the state’s position, as it had previously supported the necessity of such a district in earlier litigation. Louisiana’s arguments assert that race-based redistricting practices violate equal protection principles and should therefore be eliminated.

Previously, a federal district court ruled favorably for Black voters, determining that the existing congressional map diluted their voting power. However, the Supreme Court intervened, halting the lower court’s ruling while Louisiana’s congressional map was under examination.

In the case, Aguiñaga faces opposition from seasoned civil rights lawyers, including Edward D. Greim, who represents non-Black voters challenging the constitutionality of the majority-Black district, alleging that it amounts to racial gerrymandering.

As Aguiñaga prepares for his arguments, he recognizes the challenge ahead. His conservative legal background has positioned him as one of the emerging figures within the conservative legal movement. He emphasizes that the state must demonstrate compelling reasons for maintaining race-based districting under the equal protection clause.

The outcome of the Callais v. Louisiana case could redefine the standards governing how states approach redistricting with respect to racial considerations. This may significantly influence future legislative maps across the country, establishing precedents that could either bolster or undermine minority representation in the electoral process.

In summary, the Supreme Court’s deliberation on the Voting Rights Act in this pivotal case underscores the significant ramifications that could result from its ruling, impacting constitutional law and civil rights. Aguiñaga’s performance at this level highlights not only the evolving landscape of voting rights but also the contentious nature of political representation as it intersects with race and the law.

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Author: STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER

NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER The NEW ORLEANS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENewOrleans.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in New Orleans, Orleans Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as French Quarter Festival, New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, and Essence Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce and Greater New Orleans, Inc., plus leading businesses in energy, healthcare, and education that power the local economy such as Entergy, Ochsner Health, and Tulane University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREShreveport.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.

STAFF HERE NEWORLEANS WRITER

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