redistricting

Redistricting is the process of redrawing electoral district boundaries to reflect population changes. It typically follows a census to ensure that districts contain roughly equal populations and that representation remains proportional to the distribution of people.

In many jurisdictions, drawing maps is handled by state legislatures, but independent or bipartisan commissions are increasingly used to reduce partisan influence. Criteria commonly include equal population, contiguity, compactness, respect for political subdivisions, and the preservation of communities of interest, with attention to constitutional protections and, where applicable, protections against discrimination based on race or language.

In the United States, the process is governed by constitutional and statutory norms such as one person, one vote and protections under the Voting Rights Act. Courts review maps for equal protection and voting rights concerns, and decisions such as Baker v. Carr and Rucho v. Common Cause have shaped how redistricting is conducted and whether challenges can be resolved in federal court. After each census, many states either redraw districts or approve new maps.

Contemporary redistricting debates focus on partisan gerrymandering and racial fairness. Reform efforts include independent commissions, transparent map submissions, and public comment periods, supported by data-driven methods and, increasingly, computer-aided tools. Redistricting exists worldwide under varying legal regimes, with the common aim of aligning electoral boundaries with demographic change while preserving fair and effective representation.