Why are congressional districts redrawn add intervals
Congressional districts are redrawn at intervals primarily for two reasons:
1. To ensure equal representation: The population of the United States is not static, and it changes over time. Redrawing congressional districts allows for a more balanced distribution of population, so that each district has roughly the same number of residents. This ensures that each citizen has an equal say in the election of their representatives, as mandated by the principle of "one person, one vote."
2. In response to population shifts: Redistricting is necessary to reflect the changing demographic patterns within a state. As people move from one area to another or as new communities are established, the population within each district may become imbalanced. By redrawing the districts, new boundaries can accurately represent the population distribution, ensuring fair and accurate representation for all citizens.
Redistricting is typically conducted every ten years following the U.S. Census, as the census data provides up-to-date information about the changing population patterns. However, some states have additional rules or laws in place that allow for redistricting at other intervals as well.