Representation, Reapportionment and Redistricting

Representation To assign the appropriate number of representatives, the Census Bureau takes a nation census (population count) every 10 years! – Last census was 2010 Reapportionment: Each state’s population determines # of reps it will get.

Congressional Redistricting Boundaries drawn for congressional districts – This process is called redistricting States may redraw districts in the middle of a the 10 years rather than at the end. Abuse: – Creating districts of very unequal populations – Gerrymandering

Gerrymandering Definition: Drawing district boundaries to give one party an electoral advantage! – Drawing boundaries to ensure victory – hence weird shaped districts “Cracking” – Dividing an opponent’s voter into other districts to weaken the opponent’s voter base. “Packing” – Drawing lines so they include as many of the opposing party’s voters as possible.