Name: Gerrymandering: How drawing jagged lines can impact an election
Uploaded: 2020-09-09T13:56:07Z
Duration: 3 min 41 s
Description: District lines, and the groups of voters within them, may seem arbitrary, but a lot of thought (and political bickering) is put into these carefully drawn lines. From "packing" a district to "cracking" a district--learn how the shape of districts impacts political parties during election season. [Directed by Smart Bubble Society, narrated by Christina Greer].

Christina Greer: Gerrymandering: How drawing jagged lines can impact an election

Gerrymandering: How drawing jagged lines can impact an election

District lines, and the groups of voters within them, may seem arbitrary, but a lot of thought (and political bickering) is put into these carefully drawn lines. From "packing" a district to "cracking" a district--learn how the shape of districts impacts political parties during election season. [Directed by Smart Bubble Society, narrated by Christina Greer].

Political parties use gerrymandering to redraw voting districts and tip the scales in their favor. This practice goes back to 1812, when Massachusetts governor Elbridge Gerry approved oddly-shaped districts that looked like a salamander. Through 'packing' and 'cracking,' parties concentrate or split opposition voters, shifting power for years to come. The shape and spread of districts can quietly determine who controls budgets and sets policy.