Congressional Redistricting Elements and Considerations

Every 10 years, through the apportionment and redistricting processes within each state, Congress and the states attempt to create a U.S. House of Representatives that reflects a fair representation of the people of the United States. It is, generally, a complex, volatile, and highly political process, but one that, with a single exception, has occurred in various forms over 200 years and, for some, represents, along with free elections, the clearest indication that the United States is a representative democracy. This book provides an overview of the elements and considerations involved in Congressional redistricting with a focus on the Voting Rights Act; the apportionment formula; and the constitutionality of creating an at-large district.