What does congressional map ruling mean for Buncombe County?

The U.S. House district map for North Carolina's 2020 election is finally set.

A three-judge panel ruled Monday that what was drawn by GOP lawmakers will stand. That's despite a lawsuit alleging continued unlawful, partisan gerrymandering. The panel decided there was not enough time in the election cycle to consider that challenge.

But when Buncombe County voters go to the polls for the primary election in March, it will still be a whole new look.

"Obviously the Republicans are not happy because we're having this conversation at all," said Western Carolina University Political Science professor Chris Cooper.

He sees the dispute from two points of view.

"The current appeal was brought by Democrats saying that current maps still weren't fair enough."

The issue is U.S. congressional districts for the entire state, redrawn by Republicans in 2016, now changed again. One of the biggest adjustments can be seen right here in the mountains.

The 11th district -- the far western counties -- adjusted back east, covering all of Buncombe. That's a big deal for a strong conservative incumbent.

"Mark Meadows' district will once again include all of Asheville, so clearly that is not good news for Mark Meadows. It doesn't mean that he will not win his seat, it doesn't even mean that he's not a favorite, but it does mean that seat, overnight, is more competitive for Democrats," Cooper said.

Democratic Party Chair Jeff Rose says it's simple.

"It's a lot more clear for our voters, and for our volunteers, who exactly they're working to unseat," Rose said.

Buncombe County GOP Chair Jerry Green says he's OK with the map change. He says it's not necessarily a bad thing for Meadows.

"I think it makes the race a little more competitive than it has been, and I think that can be good for all of us," said Green.

Cooper says it's likely not a long-term change, with the 2020 census coming up.

"Odds are North Carolina will get an additional congressional seat, so we're going to rinse and repeat this whole conversation again about redistricting.

The 10th district also shifted a bit, taking GOP Rep. Patrick McHenry out of play here. We reached out for comment both from him and Mark Meadows, but have not received statements.

Other candidates are now free to begin their political efforts. Filing to run for congressional office opened Monday.