Republicans Introduce Bill to Allow Gerrymandering in Idaho

On Feb. 6 House State Affairs introduced legislation to gerrymander Idaho by changing voter districts to further favor Republican candidates. Currently, districts are drawn by the independent Citizen’s Redistricting Commission. This commission is composed of six members; three Democrats and three Republicans, encouraging collaboration. The proposed change would add a seventh member decided by the governor, lieutenant governor, state controller, state treasurer, and superintendent of public instruction. The proposal would result in a Republican controlled commission eliminating the spirit of this voter passed initiative.

Rep. Mat Erpelding (D-Boise) expressed deep concern with the bill. “Put simply, this will gerrymander Idaho, and make Idaho even more partisan.” Erpelding explained. “Our current system ensures collaboration and fairness. All Idahoans have the right to free and fair elections. Gerrymandering is the scourge of U.S. politics and Idaho is heading that way.”

For the full story, pick up a copy of the Mountain Home News or click on this link to subscribe to the newspaper's online edition.