Almost 60 years ago the Supreme Court issued a historic decision in Reynolds v. Sims, 377 U.S. 533 (1964), holding that the 14th Amendment Equal Protection Clause required that each person was entitled to one vote. Since then, state legislatures have been trying to eliminate the votes of people they don’t like through gerrymandering districts.
Named for Edlbridge Gerry of Massachusetts and fifth Vice-President, the term arose from the combination of his attempt to draw a district shaped like a salamander to keep his party in control. As a result, now towns are divided into pieces and communities split so one party can keep control in spite of the number of votes cast against them.
The Supreme Court has held that such action for political purposes is legitimate but not for racial ones. This assault on democracy is not just in southern states, but in states like Wisconsin now wanting to impeach an elected justice because the powers that be fear she may overturn their attempts to keep certain people down. Is there no shame?
Prayer for the Day
Bestow on us your mercy, O Lord, we cry to you,
For corruption reigns among us threatening to destroy us;
Guide us as we search for those who enact justice in deed,
Not just those who spout piety but have evil in their hearts.
Teach us, O God, how to overcome evil with good
Even as the corrupt put a stranglehold on power.
In the name of the One who is our strength,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
I propose we draw a map to give a partisan advantage to 10 Republicans and 3 Democrats because I do not believe it’s possible to draw a map with 11 Republicans and 2 Democrats.
- Lewis (R-Harnett, N.C.), guilty of siphoning $65k in campaign funds
Free and fair elections are the very foundation of American democracy and the most basic promise that those in power can pledge to citizens.
- Larry Hogan, Maryland Governor 2015-2023
“How long will you judge unjustly and show partiality to the wicked?
Give justice to the weak and the orphan; maintain the right of the lowly and destitute.
Rescue the weak and the needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
Psalm 82: 2-4