What are the implications of gerrymandering? Is there any way that voting districts could be divided up that would not result in one group complaining of inappropriate representation?
One of the most significant effects of gerrymandering is that it leads to vote dilution for certain individuals. It is an unfair practice because it turns votes into one direction and gives a group of people less say compared to others. It makes the incumbent stay for longer. The voter is supposed to choose their own candidate. When lawmakers interfere by drawing district lines, the effect is that there is an entrenchment of the power of one political party, making some votes count more than others.
There are ways that voting districts could be divided up that would not result in one group complaining of inappropriate representation. First, it is important that groups be set up free from any form of political control through use of independent commissions to draw district boundaries. It is also important to have bipartisan commission re-districting. This will allow both parties to draw the boundaries together in an effort to ensure that both fight for equal representation and compromise. In the latter method of striking a bargain, every group is represented fairly. While these methods may not necessarily lead to a completely equal political district, it will ensure that the representation follows a fair process for all groups.
Peer 1 Response:
I agree with your assertion that Gerrymandering will always result in an unfair process in a given district. I also concur with your example on district lines and how they affect the voting process. I would add that a process of ensuring fairness should be implemented by legislation to avoid such voter dilution in a district where the practice is rampant. Without such a plan, the future of democracy is largely tampered and could end up creating racially divided voting blocs.
