What’s Happening?
A recent ruling by the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals could block private citizens and organizations from suing under Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, a key legal tool that stops racial discrimination in voting.

Why It Matters
Section 2 has historically been used to challenge gerrymandered maps, at-large elections that dilute minority voting power, and other voter suppression practices. In many cases, private lawsuits—not the Department of Justice—are the reason unfair systems got struck down.

Michigan Is Not Immune
While the ruling started in North Dakota, it could be adopted by other courts across the country. That includes Michigan. If this legal change spreads, it will directly impact VAAC’s and the community’s ability to defend voting rights here at home.

Why This Matters to VAAC’s Work
VAAC’s mission includes ensuring that formerly incarcerated folks, system impacted individuals, low-income voters, and communities of color have a voice in elections. That includes fighting back when unjust systems block them from the ballot. Section 2 is one of the few tools that makes that possible.

What’s Next
The Supreme Court may act before July  17, 2025. We’ll be watching closely—and we’ll continue fighting for the right of every Michigander to vote freely and equally.

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🔔 Update: Supreme Court Temporarily Blocks Ruling on Voting Rights Act

On July 16, 2025, Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh put a temporary hold on a lower court decision that would have stopped private citizens and groups from suing under the Voting Rights Act in seven states. Without this pause, voters in North Dakota lose a key tool for fighting discrimination at the ballot box. The Supreme Court will decide what happens next after July 22.

While Michigan isn’t directly affected right now, the ruling could set a national precedent. If the Court allows this change to stand, it could eventually weaken the ability of groups like VAAC to defend voting rights in Michigan.

We’ll be watching closely.