I have obtained the May 31, 2011 “more information” letter sent by the Justice Department to Noxubee County.  It seeks more information regarding a proposed redistricting plan. The effect of the more information letter is to gum up the filing deadlines for the August primary, because two of the candidates do not reside in the districts under the old (still operational) lines.  The second effect is to open the possibility that the DOJ will use Section 5 to protect the rights of a white minority.  In the unlikely event that happens, it will be because the leadership and management had to be dragged kicking and screaming to the position.  Civil rights groups will not be thrilled to hear the Obama Justice Department might use Section 5 to protect a white minority in Mississippi.  The last time DOJ tried to create the impression they were protecting white voters by seeking to extend a remedy in Noxubee County, they lost.   Some highlights from the letter:

*  It seeks more information about the process leading to redistricting, including the consideration of alternative plans.

* The amount of road mileage (distance) in the benchmark plan by supervisor district, and the road mileage in the proposed and alternative plans.

* Locations for voting locations.

* The letter notes the following chain of DOJ staff – TCH:RSB:JER:JLR:maf:par.