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The boundaries of confusion: Gerrymandering and racial disparities in state House and congressional district line congruity

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  • David Niven
  • Barbara Harris Combs
  • Carolette Norwood
  • Kalyn E. Rossiter
  • Michael E. Solimine

Abstract

Objectives We introduce a new, stable, and reliable measure of gerrymandering based on the number of unnecessary overlapping state House districts within U.S. House districts. We then test for the presence of racial disparities by considering the relative number of unnecessary overlapping districts in majority‐white and majority–minority areas. Methods We utilize a data set encompassing maps in place in the 2012–2022 period from all 35 states with at least four congressional districts. Collectively this includes 386 U.S. House districts and more than 3600 state House districts. Results We find widespread unnecessary district overlaps. In 34 of the 35 states examined, congressional districts overlap with more state House districts than is mathematically required. Moreover, unnecessary district overlaps are not imposed uniformly. Regression results suggest that districts with the largest white population experience roughly half the unnecessary overlaps imposed on districts with the smallest white population. Conclusion We argue the implications of this racial disparity are significant given that previous research finds that confusing district boundaries have a deleterious effect on the basic pillars of representation. This effort represents a new and straightforward gerrymandering metric with implications for the study of representation and the pursuit of fair districts in the courts.

Suggested Citation

  • David Niven & Barbara Harris Combs & Carolette Norwood & Kalyn E. Rossiter & Michael E. Solimine, 2022. "The boundaries of confusion: Gerrymandering and racial disparities in state House and congressional district line congruity," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 103(6), pages 1507-1518, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:socsci:v:103:y:2022:i:6:p:1507-1518
    DOI: 10.1111/ssqu.13213
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Barnes, Richard & Solomon, Justin, 2021. "Gerrymandering and Compactness: Implementation Flexibility and Abuse," Political Analysis, Cambridge University Press, vol. 29(4), pages 448-466, October.
    2. Danny Hayes & Seth C. McKee, 2009. "The Participatory Effects of Redistricting," American Journal of Political Science, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 53(4), pages 1006-1023, October.
    3. David Niven & Benjamin Plener Cover & Michael Solimine, 2021. "Are Individuals Harmed by Gerrymandering? Examining Access to Congressional District Offices," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 102(1), pages 29-46, January.
    4. Christopher N. Lawrence & Scott H. Huffmon, 2015. "Keeping Up with the Congressmen: Evaluating Constituents’ Awareness of Redistricting," Social Science Quarterly, Southwestern Social Science Association, vol. 96(1), pages 65-75, March.
    5. Keele, Luke & Cubbison, William & White, Ismail, 2021. "Suppressing Black Votes: A Historical Case Study of Voting Restrictions in Louisiana," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 115(2), pages 694-700, May.
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