Texas redistricting trial wrapping up

WASHINGTON, D.C. (KXAN) - Closing arguments in the fight over redrawing Texas’ political maps will start Tuesday in Washington, D.C. At issue – whether the GOP-drawn maps violate the federal Voting Rights Act.

A panel of three judges has waded through two weeks of testimony regarding the state’s new legislative and congressional maps. Texas requires pre-approval from the Justice Department, because it is a state with a history of racial discrimination.

Minority groups have sided with the Justice Department, saying lawmakers drew several districts to reduce minority voting power. The Justice Department and the state of Texas each have an hour for closing arguments, with each of the minority groups allowed 15 minutes for their own arguments.

The Washington trial has pressed on, though another federal court in San Antonio is also dealing with the maps. The U.S. Supreme Court rejected interim maps that court drew, asking the court to redraw the maps to more closely resemble the one originally drawn by the Texas Legislature.

These proceedings and the reportedly stalled talks between the state and opposition groups have put Texas’ April 3 primaries in question. Adjustments in these maps could affect the balance of power in the state and nation. Texas will gain four seats in Congress.