The map, redrawn every ten

years to adjust for changes in census figures, places Collins in the 8th

of 13 districts, which encompasses most of Fayette and Coweta and several

other counties south of Atlanta.

The map splits cities like

Newnan and Griffin between two congressmen, along with parts of the surrounding

counties.

"I am disturbed by the

way the Legislature has ignored the economic interests of many of the

regions under redistricting," Collins said in a prepared statement.

"The current plan divides

15 of 18 counties, which were the basis of the 3rd District [currently

represented by Collins], between two or three members of Congress,"

he added. "While in the past, we have been able to work with other

members to adequately provide representation for these regions, further

dividing these counties and regions will make it manifoldly more difficult

to come to consensus on issues concerning these areas."

Collins said for his part he

will continue to treat entire counties as if he is their representative.

"I will not concern myself with where in a county a need arises,

but will continue to work for the best interest of the entire county,

and the entire state," he said.

He stressed that the process

of redrawing district lines if "far from completed. The new districts

must pass [U.S.] Justice Department review, and it is highly likely, given

the manner that this map was drawn, that there will be various legal challenges

to the plan."

State Republican leaders Wednesday

called on state Democrats to fund their own defense to such legal challenges,

rather than using state funds, saying the process has been entirely political

and should be defended using campaign funds.

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