Austin American-Statesman (Op-Ed): Fair redistricting can help keep lawmakers accountable to the people

Texans have watched with dismay as partisan lawmakers have spent the last year playing politics with our lives. Since November, state legislators, led by Governor Abbott, have spent more time and resources chasing election conspiracy theories than they have preventing the spread of COVID-19 that has cost 58,000 Texans their lives. Last month, those same politicians passed an unpopular voter suppression bill that will limit every voter’s right to cast a ballot on Election Day. By restricting our freedom to vote, our state representatives are also restricting our right to democratic participation.

The reason these partisan actors can put their own political ambitions above our needs, without consequences, is thanks to highly gerrymandered district maps approved in the 2011 redistricting process. As we begin the once-in-a-decade process during our third special session, it’s critical that Texans demand fair maps that keep our leaders accountable to the people and not special interests.

Redistricting is the process that lays the groundwork for free and fair elections and an accountable government—regardless of our political affiliation, race, ethnicity, or geographical location. Every ten years the state legislature leads the process to redraw our political district maps. The process, when conducted fairly, is meant to ensure that even as our communities change, every Texan will continue to have representation and a voice in our government.

That’s why it’s critical that we the people have a say in how our maps are drawn. When the people are prioritized in our democracy, we will have certainty that maps are drawn to benefit us, not the politicians. State legislators must give us ample opportunity to review the maps, weigh in with our own thoughts, and voice our feedback. State legislators should outline an accessible process for multiple statewide public hearings for as many Texans as possible to be heard.

The maps legislators draw will be in place for the next ten years, at one of the most critical moments for our democracy. We must get this right, for ourselves and the next generation of voters. Currently, Congress is considering the Freedom to Vote Act, federal legislation that would prohibit gerrymandering in all 50 states. We urge Texas’ senators to support this bill and send it to President Biden for his signature without delay.

Even with common sense federal legislation, no one knows Texas like Texans. It’s up to us to ensure redistricting is driven by the community. Our voices are all that stands between partisan politicians and gerrymandered maps that carve up our communities and seek to eliminate our power.

Together, we can ensure we draw fair maps that deliver free and fair elections and an equitable, accountable government for all Texans.

Gómez is associate director of Common Cause Texas.