(a) Introduction. This section and the sections that follow set forth factors—in addition to those set forth above—that the Attorney General considers in reviewing redistrictings (see §51.59), changes in electoral systems (see §51.60), and annexations (see §51.61).

(b) Background factors. In making determinations with respect to these changes involving voting practices and procedures, the Attorney General will consider as important background information the following factors:

(1) The extent to which minorities have been denied an equal opportunity to participate meaningfully in the political process in the jurisdiction.

(2) The extent to which voting in the jurisdiction is racially polarized and election-related activities are racially segregated.

(3) The extent to which the voter registration and election participation of minority voters have been adversely affected by present or past discrimination.

[52 FR 490, Jan. 6, 1987, as amended by Order No. 3262-2011, 76 FR 21249, Apr. 15, 2011]