Save American Democracy Act
Summary
The Save American Democracy Act (SAD Act) aims to limit mid-decade congressional redistricting. It generally prohibits states from redrawing congressional districts more than once following a decennial census. Exceptions are made if redistricting is required by court order to comply with the U.S. Constitution, the Voting Rights Act, or the state's own constitution, or if the initial redistricting legislation explicitly mandates further redistricting.
Expected Effects
If enacted, the SAD Act would reduce the frequency of partisan gerrymandering after the initial post-census redistricting. This could lead to more stable congressional districts throughout the decade. It could also reduce the costs associated with frequent redistricting efforts.
Potential Benefits
- Reduces potential for partisan gerrymandering.
- Promotes stability in congressional districts.
- May decrease costs associated with multiple redistricting processes.
- Could lead to more predictable election outcomes.
- Upholds the principle of one person, one vote by preventing manipulation of district lines for political advantage.
Potential Disadvantages
- May limit a state's ability to correct unintentional errors or address unforeseen demographic shifts within a decade.
- Could entrench existing political power structures if the initial redistricting is unfair.
- May lead to legal challenges regarding the interpretation of 'necessary to comply with the Constitution'.
- Could hinder a state's ability to respond to significant changes in population distribution.
- Potentially reduces the flexibility of states to adapt to evolving legal interpretations of voting rights.
Constitutional Alignment
The bill cites Article I, Section 4, granting Congress power over the time, place, and manner of congressional elections, and Section 5 of the Fourteenth Amendment, giving Congress power to enforce Section 2, which concerns apportionment. The bill aims to prevent redistricting that could dilute the voting power of specific groups, aligning with the equal protection clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. However, the extent of congressional power over state redistricting remains a subject of legal interpretation.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).