Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Redistricting District 9

On Friday afternoon, the Speaker of the Senate released the details of statewide congressional redistricting. The 9th district now occupies the entire western two-thirds of the county, from north to south, which leaves the eastern third to the 8th District. The 7th District has seen its western border advanced all the way over to Hardeman County. In short, the Republicans are taking over.
 
1. How has Shelby County's congressional representation changed?
 Republicans have a better chance
2. How was the demographic makeup of the 9th district changed?
 it didnt really change...it is still solidly Democratic with the 60% African American majority but it now occupies the entire western two-thirds of the county
3. How would the 7th and 8th districts be impacted?
 they have gotten bigger

There were some new redistricting plans. Republicans are in control. Some people call it gerrymandering because they claim it is unfair, but Democrats have done it too. Its like a double sided coin...of course someone is going to lose....But anyway, Cohen is losing his Jewish constituents and he's pissed.

1. Why were Republicans able to control the redistricting process?
 they control both chambers of the legislature as well as the governorship
2. How does the article describe the practice of gerrymandering?
 it isnt new..the Democrats have done it too when they were in control
3. How does the 1965 Voting Rights Act affect the process?
the rights of minorities can not be not abridged or reduced in the determination of district lines.
4. How will District 9 be changed?
 it is moving farther north
5. Why is Cohen concerned about the changing demographics of District 9?
 he is jewish and they are separating him from the jews and he doubts that Fincher's rural perspective gives the 8th District congressman proper insight and perspective on behalf of the lost constituents.
6. Why is John Ryder drawing attention to the fact that Cohen represents a black district? (It's not because Cohen isn't black)
he was being sarcastic
 

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