Democratic U.S. Representative Steve Cohen from Tennessee announced on Friday (May 15) that he will not seek re-election following the approval of a new congressional map that divides his Memphis-based district. The redistricting effort, led by the Republican-controlled state legislature, splits the 9th District into three Republican-leaning districts, effectively ending Cohen’s nearly 20-year tenure in Congress.
Cohen, who has been a vocal advocate for civil rights and the first Jewish person to represent Tennessee in Congress, expressed his disappointment over the changes. He stated, “The districts were drawn to defeat me,” during a news conference from his Washington office. The new map, which divides the majority-Black district of Shelby County, has sparked protests and multiple lawsuits challenging its legality. Cohen has joined these legal efforts, leaving open the possibility of running again if the courts overturn the new map.
The redistricting follows a recent Supreme Court decision in Callais v. Louisiana that limited the use of race in drawing congressional districts, prompting several states to adopt new maps that favor Republican candidates. Cohen’s retirement adds to the growing number of House members stepping down, marking the 59th retirement in this election cycle.
The new map has also drawn Republican candidates, with state Rep. Todd Warner and state Sen. Brent Taylor declaring their candidacies for the newly created districts. Meanwhile, Tennessee state Rep. Justin Pearson, known for his activism against gun violence, remains in the Democratic primary race.
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries praised Cohen’s contributions, highlighting his efforts to improve healthcare, education, and civil rights. Cohen’s decision to retire underscores the significant impact of redistricting on the political landscape in Tennessee and beyond.
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