Districts redrawn

[question everything]

I know that districts can change size and/or shape, but here the state districts "moved."

I used to be in District 44, NW of the Metro, now I am in 42. District 44 is now in Maplewood. Next to District 40. Why is that?

Also, some legislators no longer represent their current constituents, including my senator. Yet, we don't have senate elections until 2024, right?

Strange.

[c-rational]

1. Good questions, no pun intended. Hope it's not as nefarious as it sounds.

[dflprincess]

2. I don't think there is any nefarious intent

I've lived in the same spot for nearly 50 years and in that time I've been in a variety of Senate Districts with a variety of numbers (38, 40, 50, 51, and at least one more I don't remember)

I don't know how Senate Districts numbers get picked (for example sd 50 abuts sd 63 - go figure) but it seems pretty random & I haven't noticed any line that look wildly gerrymandered (and the courtrs wind up drawing the lines to that helps).

[progree]

3. MN Senate elections are in years ending 0, 2, and 6 - so all senators are up for election

Last edited Wed Mar 23, 2022, 12:03 AM - Edit history (1)

this year. I know that sounds bizarre. Senate elections in 2020, 2022, 2026, 2030, 2032, 2036, ... But its the way it is. The infinite-wisdom types decided they wanted senate elections every 4 years, but they also wanted an election as soon as possible after the decenniel census and the consequent redistricting (and in an even numbered year) so voila. (Edited to add the "and the consequent redistricting" )

Senators elected in "YYY2" and "YYY6" serve 4 year terms. Those elected in "YYY0" serve 2 year terms.

I was in 45b but am now in 43something. I think.

[dflprincess]

4. The Senate elections are weird because of redistricing.

If you want to confirm your new district #, the Strib has a handy tool at the link below. Just scroll down to either the "State House" or "State Senate" section & enter your address.


https://www.startribune.com/how-redistricting-reshaped-minnesotas-political-borders/600128883/

[progree]

5. Fascinating. Thanks /nt

[question everything]

6. Thanks. Obviously, if they change districts they have to have elections soon after

Still bizarre.