The Republican-controlled North Carolina Legislature passed a Congressional redistricting map into law late Wednesday, solidifying a substantial GOP political edge in the Tar Heel State for the next decade.

Democrats currently have a 7-6 advantage in the state’s Congressional delegation, but it is almost certain to be substantially reduced during the 2012 elections. The new map significantly endangers Democratic Reps. Mike McIntyre, Larry Kissell, Heath Shuler and Brad Miller.

Democratic Gov. Beverly Perdue cannot veto the map under North Carolina law. However, under the 1965 Voting Rights Act, either the Justice Department or the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia must approve the map before it can be enforced.