Dodge City goes to trial over voting system

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - The outcome of a trial could change the future of voting in Dodge City forever.

The American Civil Liberties Union claims Dodge City is violating federal voting laws by making it impossible for the Hispanic and Latino communities to elect someone to the city commission that truly represents them.

Over half of Dodge City’s population identifies as Hispanic or Latino. Community members say they have not had the power to elect city officials of their choosing for the past two decades.

Last week, a trial wrapped up to see if Dodge City violates federal voting laws by having an at-large voting system rather than a single-member voting system. In the current at-large system, voters all vote for the five people who will represent them on the city commission. In a single-member voting system, the city would be divided into districts.

“The testimony that came in was unrebutted on the fact that if you draw a map in Dodge City and divide it up to five single-member districts at least one of those districts would be majority Latino and they would have the ability to elect a rep of choice,” said Sharon Brett, legal director of ACLU Kansas.

The ACLU argues that this is polarized voting and violates the Voting Rights Act - and that Hispanic and Latino voters have every right to feel represented.

“That ability to see themselves in their reps and know they are reflecting the values and needs and desires of the Latino community could have huge implications for that community,” said Brett.

The judgment is expected within the next six months. If the decision states Dodge City violates federal law, it must be divided into voting districts to comply. If Dodge City loses, other Kansas cities may face consequences of their own.

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