Yup, another example where PA is backwards and probably lacks the political will to change. Sigh. Oh, and one question, are we sure this bill is the right way to solve this problem?
Yet it is the product of precise partisan method, not madness. After the 2000 census, each party indulged in computer-aided orgies of self-interest as the new election districts were drawn. The GOP controlled more state capitols, however. Party leaders used that clout to pursue their goal of “permanent majorities” at the state and federal levels. One of the main tools was “cracking,” dividing Democratic spots like Conshohocken among multiple districts to dilute their impact.Pennsylvania ended up as the second-worst-gerrymandered state, according to one independent study. (Georgia Democrats took first prize.)
So who cares about this inside-politics stuff? You should. You’re getting shafted.
(via AAJ)
Gerrymandering
In a state that has a long tradition of thinking it is many private fiefdoms it is understandable why giving up the private approach to governing is so difficult.
But one would hope that with the beginning of the 21st century that the tradition of selling off land to privileged English and Irish landlords and corporations would come to a halt. If a bill has not been considered by the middle of June 2008 the grand tradition will continue until at least 2022. Do the citizens of Penna. really want to wait 14 years while the legislators choose their constituents instead of the voters electing their legislators, like they do in other states? High School Civics classes might change minds.
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