The U.S. Department of Justice has filed a lawsuit against the City of Hazleton, Pennsylvania, alleging that its at-large method of electing city council members violates Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act by diluting the voting power of Hispanic citizens.
Hispanic citizens make up more than 40% of Hazleton’s voting-age population, yet candidates preferred by Hispanic voters have routinely been unsuccessful in city council elections under the current at-large system. The lawsuit claims that this system prevents Hispanic citizens from having an equal opportunity to participate in the political process and elect candidates of their choice.
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Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Civil Rights Division stated, “The Voting Rights Act is an essential safeguard to ensure all citizens have a fair chance to choose their elected officials. This lawsuit reaffirms our commitment to protecting the democratic process and ensuring equal representation for all communities.”
U.S. Attorney Gerard M. Karam for the Middle District of Pennsylvania echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of fair representation. “The Hispanic population is a vital and growing segment of Hazleton’s community. They deserve the opportunity to elect candidates who represent their interests.”
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The Justice Department’s lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania, proposes a remedy in the form of single-member districts. This change could ensure that Hispanic voters have the opportunity to elect at least two members to the five-member city council, reflecting their significant presence in the electorate.
The lawsuit seeks a federal court order to implement a new electoral method for the Hazleton City Council. While legal proceedings are underway, the Justice Department has expressed willingness to engage in discussions with Hazleton officials to resolve the matter without prolonged litigation.
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