Understanding Gerrymandering: The States With Twisted Voting Maps

Gerrymandering remains a contentious issue in American politics, but which states twist and turn their voting maps the most?Newsweek has mapped the most gerrymandered states, based on data from the World Population Review. Much of the worst gerrymandering was concentrated in parts of the Southern and Northeastern United States. The 11 worst offenders were North Carolina, Maryland, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, Louisiana, Arkansas, Utah, Texas, Ohio, West Virginia, and Wisconsin.

According to the report, Wisconsin is considered the most gerrymandered state in America, although the practice is present in all states. In 2022, voters in Wisconsin elected a Democratic governor, attorney general, and secretary of state. These appointments were unaffected by gerrymandering as they used the statewide vote. However, Republicans maintained a 64-35 and 21-11 majority in the state Assembly and Senate respectively, enabled by Republican-drawn maps that favored its party's candidates in districts across the state.

In February, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers signed new maps into law which he said would ensure the state "will not have the most gerrymandered maps in America." The World Population Review analysis also drew on Texas' post-2020 redistricting, which FiveThirtyEight analysts have suggested may have represented "the worst gerrymander in the country," and gerrymandering in Pennsylvania, which "dilutes the interests of major urban areas by dividing them among other districts."

Defining Gerrymandering: A Historical Context

The term gerrymander traces back to 1812, when Governor Elbridge Gerry of Massachusetts enacted a law defining new state senatorial districts. This law consolidated the Federalist Party vote in a handful of districts, resulting in disproportionate representation for the Democratic-Republicans. The district's contorted shape was said to resemble a salamander, leading to the term "Gerrymander."

Gerrymandering is criticized for being undemocratic, as it allows politicians to choose their voters instead of the other way around. This practice can lead to less competitive elections, lower voter turnout, and feelings of disenfranchisement among voters. Additionally, it contributes to political polarization, making it harder for moderate voices to be heard.

Consequences of Gerrymandering

Gerrymandering has significant impacts on the political landscape. It can create "safe" electoral seats, where one party dominates, reducing the incentive for candidates to appeal to a broader audience. This often results in primaries being the only competitive elections, where extreme partisans can sway the outcomes drastically. Because these primaries are generally low-turnout events, candidates are incentivized to shift further to the political extremes.

Experts like Thomas Gift, a political science associate professor, explain that gerrymandering is a key driver of polarization in Congress. He notes that the only real competition House members face comes from within their party, particularly during primaries. This dynamic leaves moderates at a disadvantage and fosters a hyper-partisan environment that has become characteristic of Washington politics.

What Can Be Done About Gerrymandering?

Efforts to combat gerrymandering often include calls for independent redistricting commissions. These commissions aim to create fairer maps that do not favor one party over another. Some states have successfully implemented such measures, showcasing that reform is possible. Additionally, public awareness and advocacy are crucial in pushing for changes in how electoral maps are drawn.

As the conversation around gerrymandering continues, it is essential for voters to engage in the process. Understanding the implications of gerrymandering can empower citizens to advocate for more democratic electoral practices. Together, we can work towards a system where every vote truly counts.

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