Redistricting reform is long overdue

The Olympian
August 21, 2008

The next census is only two years away, and redistricting in 2011 will follow it. 

The specter of another round of depressing partisan haggling to redraw political lines, particularly congressional districts, is fueling a renewed national push for redistricting reform. 

Gerrymandered districts are one of the most detrimental diseases afflicting modern politics. 

Instead of giving voters a real choice in competitive districts, politicians of both parties draw lines to serve their partisan interests by packing districts and giving voters less reason to participate in the democratic process. 

Packed districts also allow the extremes in both political parties to gain more control over the legislative process at all levels and disenfranchise middle-of the-road Americans whose main goal is effective government. ... 

Of course, Congress isn't likely to approve the needed reform in the closing weeks of an election year session, but now is the time to push lawmakers and candidates to take a stand for fairness. ... 

The above editorial excerpt is from the San Antonio (Texas) Express-News.