Sunday, October 7, 2001
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Sunday, October 7, 2001 |
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Collins criticizes new map
U.S. Rep. Mac Collins, R-3rd, expressed displeasure with the new congressional district map approved Saturday by the Georgia Legislature. The map, redrawn every ten years to adjust for changes in census figures, places Collins in the 8th of 13 districts, which encompasses most of Fayette and Coweta and several other counties south of Atlanta. The map splits cities like Newnan and Griffin between two congressmen, along with parts of the surrounding counties. "I am disturbed by the way the Legislature has ignored the economic interests of many of the regions under redistricting," Collins said in a prepared statement. "The current plan divides 15 of 18 counties, which were the basis of the 3rd District [currently represented by Collins], between two or three members of Congress," he added. "While in the past, we have been able to work with other members to adequately provide representation for these regions, further dividing these counties and regions will make it manifoldly more difficult to come to consensus on issues concerning these areas." Collins said for his part he will continue to treat entire counties as if he is their representative. "I will not concern myself with where in a county a need arises, but will continue to work for the best interest of the entire county, and the entire state," he said. He stressed that the process of redrawing district lines if "far from completed. The new districts must pass [U.S.] Justice Department review, and it is highly likely, given the manner that this map was drawn, that there will be various legal challenges to the plan." State Republican leaders Wednesday called on state Democrats to fund their own defense to such legal challenges, rather than using state funds, saying the process has been entirely political and should be defended using campaign funds.
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