Reed backs Lewis on controversial proposal to strip some of his c

It is not an election year, but Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed is in full campaign mode for U.S. Rep. John Lewis and the preservation of his congressional district.

Under a proposal being floated by Republican leaders in the Georgia General Assembly, Lewis, who represents Atlanta, would lose the Buckhead area to Rep. Phil Gingrey, R-Marietta, who represents the 11th District.

If it happens, it would be the first time in modern history that a Republican would represent a portion of Atlanta. Lewis has said the plan was “an affront to the spirit and the letter of the Voting Rights Act."

Reed agrees.

“Congressman Lewis has been an excellent congressman and I believe Atlanta should be represented by one member of congress,” Reed said Wednesday morning.

GOP supporters of the move argue that with Lewis and Gingrey representing the city, Atlanta will have more political clout in Washington.

“I understand the practical reason, but we have a once-in-a-lifetime congressman,” said Reed, a Democrat. “His desires for his congressional district should be respected. I believe Atlanta is unique and his contributions should be valued. He has strong feelings about this and he should be supported.”

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