gerrymandering
/ˈdʒɛrimændərɪŋ/
Definition
The practice of manipulating the boundaries of electoral districts to create an unfair advantage for a specific political party or group.
Etymology
The term is a portmanteau of 'Gerry'—referring to Massachusetts Governor Elbridge Gerry, who signed a bill creating a strangely shaped district in 1812—and 'salamander,' because critics thought the district map resembled the creature. It became a permanent fixture of political lexicon to describe manipulative district design.
In the news
The article identifies gerrymandering as one of several institutional mechanisms used to achieve minority rule by packing or splitting opposition voters to retain governing power. It is cited as a way the ruling minority maintains an electoral advantage despite winning fewer total votes.
Facts Don’t Win Elections. Stories Do.
Read the full article ↗The Fulcrum