Clarion-Ledger editorial again weighs in on redistricting, and where the legislative process currently stands

Today's Clarion-Ledger has an editorial on redistricting, which I believe fairly sums up the situation. In it, they say that Republicans want the courts to draw new maps (true) and that Lt. Gov. Phil Bryant (R) prevented the Senate from voting on a compromise plan sent over by the House late in the session (also true). Here's the money quote:

So, out of this whole dysfunctional, partisan mess, (Rep. Tommy) Reynolds and (Sen. Terry) Burton are attempting to salvage an agreement.

That is exactly what is happening, with more than a little help from other legislators of both parties. The editorial goes on to call on Speaker Billy McCoy (D-Rienzi) to approve whatever compromise Reynolds and Burton work out, and for Lt. Gov. Bryant to allow a vote. All indications are that Speaker McCoy is all for the compromise maps that are floating around right now, and that Lt. Gov. Bryant may be ready to fold his tent on this issue. We shall see.

Some say that Gov. Haley Barbour has to first agree to call a special session. I don't see Gov. Barbour as being willing to stand in the way if an agreement is reached. It just doesn't pay any dividends for him politically to do so.

As a side note, it is interesting that fiercely partisan Republicans are attacking the heck out of Sen. Terry Burton (R-Newton) right now as he attempts to work out a compromise.