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Redistricting is the process of drawing electoral district boundaries. It occurs every ten years after the census to reflect population changes. Proper redistricting ensures fair representation for all voters.
Legal Framework for Redistricting
Redistricting laws are designed to prevent unfair manipulation of district boundaries. Federal laws such as the Voting Rights Act prohibit practices that dilute minority voting power. State laws vary, but many include criteria for fairness and transparency.
Protecting Voting Rights
Voters and advocacy groups can challenge unfair redistricting plans in court. Legal challenges often focus on gerrymandering, where districts are drawn to favor a particular party or group. Fair redistricting promotes equal representation.
Key Principles of Fair Redistricting
- Contiguity: Districts should be physically connected.
- Population Equality: Districts must have roughly equal populations.
- Community of Interest: Districts should respect existing communities.
- Transparency: The process should be open to public input.