Justice Department

Voting Rights Chief Steps Down

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The Justice Department lawyer in charge of voting rights stepped down on Friday following allegations that he helped suppress African-American votes.

McClatchy’s D.C. bureau relates John Tanner’s job change to controversy over the politicization of Bush administration’s Department of Justice. Tanner came under fire in October for a comment that black Americans have shorter life spans, so a Georgia photo ID would have a greater impact on white voters.

The news organization has reported on what it calls a pattern of Justice Department decision-making, especially within the Civil Rights Division, that tends to curtail the voting rights of Democratic-leaning minorities.

Tanner reportedly asked to be reassigned and has taken a position in the Office of Special Counsel for Immigration-Related Unfair Employment Practices.

Until a permanent replacement for Tanner is named, veteran voting rights lawyer Chris Coates will serve as acting chief.

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