Louisiana redistricting hearings start today

Public hearings begin in Baton Rouge at the state capitol today on creating new congressional districts in Louisiana.

When the U.S. Supreme Court invalidated Louisiana's Sixth Congressional district as an unconstitutional racial gerrymander, state lawmakers started scheduling debate on bills preboiled in anticipation of the ruling.

Political analyst Pearson Cross says lawmakers will likely draw five majority-white -- and majority Republican -- districts.

"The most probable outcome is a 5-1 map," said Cross. "Five safe Republican districts and then one pretty-safe Democratic district."

Could the Republican supermajorities follow Tennessee's example, and attempt to create a solid Republican delegation?

"I think there are lesser possibilities for a 6-0 map, all-Republican, all white-majority," said Cross.

The legislature must finalize the new Congressional districts by June 1, which is when the session must end.