What's Happening?
Redistricting is the process of redrawing district boundaries to ensure equal representation following the census. Historically, districts were defined by town or county borders, but population growth necessitated periodic adjustments. The Supreme Court's rulings in the 1960s established the requirement for equal population in legislative districts, leading to the modern practice of redistricting. This process is essential for maintaining fair representation, but it also presents opportunities for gerrymandering, where district lines are manipulated for partisan advantage.
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Why It's Important?
Redistricting is a fundamental aspect of representative democracy, ensuring that legislative districts reflect population changes and provide equal representation. However, the potential for gerrymandering poses a threat to fair representation, allowing political parties to manipulate district boundaries for electoral gain. Understanding the historical and constitutional context of redistricting is crucial for developing strategies to prevent gerrymandering and maintain the integrity of democratic institutions.
