Gerrymandering
Definition
The practice of manipulating the boundaries of electoral districts to favor one political party, incumbent, or other interest group.
A portmanteau of 'Elbridge Gerry' (Massachusetts governor in 1812) and 'salamander,' referring to a district map that resembled the amphibian, giving one party an unfair advantage.
A redistricting tactic involving 'packing' opponents into few districts or 'cracking' their votes across many to dilute influence.
Examples
The politicians' gerrymandering turned the district map into a psychedelic salamander, ensuring their party could slither to victory unchallenged.
In a masterclass of gerrymandering, they packed the opposition voters into one district tighter than clowns in a compact car.
Gerrymandering is like electoral Tetris: drop those lines just right, and the blocks of your rivals disappear from play.
Thanks to clever gerrymandering in Texas, the GOP created safe seats so secure, even a meteor strike couldn't flip them.
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