Wisconsin Governor Evers Signs Law Reducing GOP Gerrymandering
In Wisconsin, Governor Tony Evers has signed new legislative maps that could potentially change the state's political landscape. These maps are the result of an order by the state Supreme Court for their redrawing, following a period during which Republicans have maintained control of the legislature since 2011. The newly signed maps create a more even distribution of Democratic- and Republican-leaning districts, which could give Democrats the opportunity to secure legislative control, a feat they have not achieved in over a decade.
The redrawing of these maps comes amidst ongoing national political contests, including the upcoming 2024 elections, where the Republican presidential nomination race is gaining momentum. Key issues like abortion rights, climate change policy, and economic strategies are expected to be at the forefront of the political discourse as the delegate count unfolds leading up to the summer conventions.
The implementation of these maps concludes a contentious chapter in Wisconsin's political history, characterized by claims of extreme partisan gerrymandering and efforts by Republican legislators to restrict ballot access and curtail the powers of statewide elected officials. This change follows grassroots activism and shifts in the judicial landscape, including the election of Justice Janet Protasiewicz. The maps' reception and adherence to the Wisconsin Supreme Court's neutrality criteria will be under scrutiny, as they are poised to grant Democrats a majority in the state Senate and an advantage in the Assembly in upcoming elections. However, any potential shift in control of the upper chamber would not be possible until the 2026 elections due to the timing of electoral cycles.
