This article originally appeared in the Delaware State News on October 17, 2023 and was written by executive director Claire Snyder-Hall .  

When we go to polls to cast our ballots, we expect our votes to count — and that starts with fair voting districts. Redistricting determines what voting district we’re in, what is on our ballot and the future of our neighborhoods.

On Friday, Common Cause and a coalition of voting rights groups released a report grading the 2020-21 redistricting cycle in all 50 states. The report concludes that a more inclusive process that operates independently from legislatures and political parties leads to better maps — ones that empower communities rather than shoring up incumbent protection or majority party control.

Having free and fair elections — where we, the people, choose our leaders — is not a partisan issue. None of us — Republican, Democrat or independent — wants elected leaders to be able to choose their voters and set the terms of the election. That’s why the report points to independent redistricting commissions that put power in the hands of the people.

Delaware earned a grade of C-, and as a member of the Fair Maps Delaware Coalition, I would have to agree with that assessment. Why did we get that score and how can we improve?

To read the full article, click here.