In a pivotal moment during the Louisiana Legislature meeting on May 28, 2025, Representative Jordan urged lawmakers to take immediate action on redistricting, emphasizing the urgency of complying with federal mandates. He highlighted recent developments in neighboring Mississippi, where a court ruling has prompted new elections due to violations of Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act.
Jordan argued that Louisiana must proactively redraw its electoral maps to avoid similar judicial intervention. "I think it sends a signal that we are unwilling to do so," he stated, advocating for the legislature to demonstrate its commitment to compliance and rectify any constitutional violations.
Despite his passionate plea, House Bill 487 faced significant opposition. The motion to report the bill in favor was met with a vote tally of 6 yeas to 9 nays, resulting in its failure to pass. This outcome raises questions about the state's readiness to address electoral fairness and the potential consequences of inaction as the clock ticks toward upcoming elections.
As the meeting progressed, attention shifted to Senate Bill 137, indicating that discussions on legislative priorities are far from over. The failure of House Bill 487 underscores the challenges Louisiana lawmakers face in navigating complex electoral issues while balancing political interests.