MEMPHIS, Tenn. - A revised Tennessee congressional map that split a predominantly Black district in Memphis enters its first primary election Tuesday. The contest will select nominees as Republicans aim to capture every U.S. House seat from the state in the midterms.

The primaries faced disruption three months before voting when the Republican-controlled Legislature adjusted district lines after a U.S. Supreme Court decision that reduced federal Voting Rights Act safeguards for minority voters. President Donald Trump supported the changes as part of a broader effort to help Republicans retain their narrow House majority.

Trump backed state Sen. Brent Taylor in the four-candidate Republican primary for the heavily altered 9th Congressional District. The district now extends roughly 200 miles (320 kilometers) east from Memphis before turning north toward Nashville. Once a Democratic stronghold, the area now leans Republican, prompting some Memphis residents to worry about reduced influence.

Following the boundary changes, longtime Democratic U.S. Rep. Steve Cohen decided against seeking another term in the 9th District. His Democratic primary opponent, state Rep. Justin Pearson, was then joined by state Sen. London Lamar in a four-person race.

Pearson drew national notice in 2023 after expulsion from the Republican-led state House for protesting gun control measures after a fatal school shooting in Nashville. Voters in Memphis later returned him to office.

Republicans currently occupy eight of Tennessee's nine congressional seats.

For years Memphis, the largest city in Shelby County, anchored its own congressional district. The county is now divided among three districts that reach outward into rural zones.

Lonzo Taylor, a retired postal worker and military veteran, said Black voters like him have seen their influence reduced.

“We only had one district in the whole state of Tennessee, and you don’t even want that to be fair? It’s just terrible,” said Taylor, 72. “I love this state, but I am very disappointed in our governor,” who summoned lawmakers for a special session on redistricting.

Milla Meiman, 23, who cast an early ballot in the Democratic primary, said she learned of the map changes only after receiving a mailed notice.

“It’s a drastic change to have your district sort of switched around like that,” said Meiman, who works part time at an ice cream shop and public library. Meiman added: “I think it’s a voter suppression tactic.”

Terrice Thomas, 45, an educator who supports Democrats, had to research candidates after moving from District 9 to District 8. She fears Memphis voices may be sidelined.

“Is everybody going to have an equal say on what’s happening in their communities or even the people that you’re voting for?” Thomas said. “Are they going to really take into account the different areas and what makes us unique?”