Redistricting is upon us!

Redistricting is upon us. Every ten years our lawmakers redraw voting lines. The last time this happened the Wall Street Journal called it the most obviously partisan gerrymandering process they had ever seen. It’s my hope that this doesn’t happen this time. One way you can get involved is that on Wednesday, June 15th at 6pm at the City Main Library Auditorium, Young Democrats in Salt Lake City will have the chance to let their voices be heard regarding this important issue.

Salt Lake City has been divided into three congressional districts since the last census. According to federal law, there needs to be a certain apportionment of population in each county, some lawmakers say that there needs to be an urban/rural mix so that every congressperson has a blend of interest. Others say this divides cities and counties into bits and pieces to the detriment of Utah’s citizens.

There are several tools that Young Democrats can use to keep up with the redistricting process. One is an online tool where you can draw your own map and look at how apportionment and ratios affect the bottom line of equal representation. What’s important is that you stay a part of the process by attending the meeting on Wednesday or writing a letter to the editor. The Young Democrats hope that redistricting remains a fair and transparent exercise that involves inclusion and transparency throughout the long process of drawing a fourth seat into our state.