Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act and Native Representation

We undertake the first systematic, cross-state investigation of the relationship between Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act and Native representation. Though it is not necessary for Native representation, it remains an important contributor. It also contributes to packing of Native voters: safe Section 2 districts — in which Native voters constitute a majority — decrease Native influence in surrounding districts. We provide novel empirical support for a longstanding critique of Section 2’s focus on minority ability to elect, not their influence. Because Native communities have relatively small populations, the focus on electability can impose especially harsh trade-offs on influence.

From Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act and Native Representation by Nicholas Eubank and Emily Rong Zhang.