PoliticsSeptember 3, 2026

gerrymandered

JER-ee-man-derd

Definition

Refers to congressional districts that have been manipulated or redrawn in an unfair way to favor a specific political party or incumbent.

Etymology

The term originated in 1812 after Massachusetts Governor Elbridge Gerry signed a bill that created a district shaped like a salamander to benefit his party, resulting in a satirical political cartoon that combined his name with 'salamander'.

In the news

The Missouri Supreme Court ruled that petitions for a referendum to challenge previously gerrymandered districts were legal, allowing voters to decide on the maps in November.

Missouri Supreme Court orders redistricting, petition questions on November ballot

Read the full article ↗

KRCG

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