Redistricting

The Texas Chronicle (2021) stated, Texas has not redrawn the state political lines in 10 years to conform to the census. According to the latest national census, Texas has added almost 4 million people from, 2010-2020. The majority of new residents are people of color. Redistricting should represent the majority in the state.

The Texas Tribute, (2021) concluded the Texas House Republicans have not followed the demographic trends that reflect an increase in Black, Hispanic, and the Asian population. Hispanics represent a large majority of the new residents in Texas. The Texas GOP have added one majority white district to both the Texas US House of Representatives and the Texas State Senate, with no change in Hispanic or majority representation. The Texas GOP claim the redistricting was done completed blind.

The Houston Chronicle (2021) reports, that the civil rights groups in Texas are accusing the Texas Republicans of intentionally racial gerrymandering, which is a violation of the Voting Rights Act to stay in power. That is why federal law that protect voting rights are important. States have rights but apparently they can not trusted to ensure all citizens have equal representation if they are not part of the ruling class. Lets see what happens next.

Call your local representative and let your opinion be heard. Just keeping you informed.

References:

Harris, C and Goldenstein, T. (2021, Oct. 3) GOP redistricting p[ans give little consideration to voters of color. Houston Chronicle, 120. 355 pp. A1, A10.

Pollock, C., Astudillo, C., & Svitek, P. (2021, Sept. 30). Redistricting Texas. Texas Tribute. https://www.texastribune.org/2021/09/30/texas-house-redistricting-map/