Candidates Change Districts Following Approval Of North Carolina Congressional Maps

CHARLOTTE, NC – The newly redrawn congressional district maps in North Carolina are already causing a political stir as candidates decide how they want to navigate the new lines.

The newly drawn lines don’t just impact the voters, but the candidates who represent them.

“These districts are very different than the districts that have existed the past 10 years,” said Eric Heberlig, a UNC Charlotte Political Science professor.

Heberlig says the districts are now much more competitive.

“You have to figure out how to address the needs of a whole variety of people,” said Heberlig.

Today, Congressman Richard Hudson Announced a switch from the previous 8th district to North Carolina’s 9th. Which now encompasses the Fort Bragg area.

Dan Bishop also announced in a tweet that he’ll be running in the newly created 8th district.

“A number of these districts include both urban core, suburban and rural areas. So that creates a challenge in that you can’t just speak to one constituency,” said Heberlig.

Jeff Jackson also tweeted Thursday that he is eyeing a run at the newly created 14th district.

“He would certainly be a candidate that could claim, I’ve won in that competitive area before. I’m well positioned to run there,” said Heberlig.

With primaries just around the corner. Heberlig says certain candidates are already out front.

“Because we have such a shortened time period really means that candidates who already have name recognition, already have money. Are at a real advantage here,” said Heberlig.