One redistricting fight — over the state's Assembly and Senate districts — is over. But now a separate case involving the state's congressional districts is sparking controversy in Wisconsin. Governor Evers, a Democrat, has found himself at the center of a heated battle over redistricting proposals put forth by the Republican-controlled Legislature.
Wisconsin Democratic Gov. Tony Evers has vetoed a redistricting proposal that the Republican-controlled Legislature passed last week in a move that has further fueled political tensions in the state. The redistricting process has long been a contentious issue, with both parties vying for control over the drawing of district lines.
MADISON, Wisconsin — Wisconsin Democratic Gov. Tony Evers signed new legislative district maps into law on Monday that he proposed and that have been met with mixed reactions from lawmakers and residents alike. The new maps are set to reshape the state's political landscape for years to come, potentially impacting the balance of power in the state.
Wisconsin's congressional district maps enacted in 2011 and in place through the 2021-2022 session of Congress, at left, were created by a process that has been criticized for its lack of transparency and potential for gerrymandering. The ongoing legal battles surrounding redistricting have only added fuel to the fire, with both parties accusing the other of unfair tactics.
Evers' request to the Supreme Court comes the same day he signed new legislative maps into law to eliminate a Republican gerrymander. The move has been met with backlash from Republicans, who argue that the new maps unfairly favor Democrats and could lead to further political strife in the state.
After the 2020 census, each state redrew its congressional district lines (if it had more than one seat) and its state legislative districts. Wisconsin's redistricting process has been marred by accusations of partisan manipulation, with both parties seeking to gain an advantage in future elections.
Under legal pressure to address Wisconsin's “Swiss cheese” and oddly shaped districts, the Legislature approved redrawn maps that promise to bring more balance and fairness to the state's political representation. However, critics argue that the new maps still contain elements of gerrymandering and fail to truly represent the will of the people.
Following a lengthy legal battle, Evers signed into law changes to state legislative districts earlier this week. The move has been hailed as a step towards greater political equity in the state, but many are still skeptical about the true impact of the new maps on future elections.
The Elias Law Group lawsuit comes weeks after the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled the state legislative maps unconstitutional. The ongoing legal challenges surrounding redistricting in Wisconsin highlight the deep political divisions that continue to plague the state's political landscape.
