Walz Statement on Supreme Court Redistricting Decision

Mankato, MN [6/29/15] – Today, Congressman Tim Walz (D-MN) released the following statement after the Supreme Court announced its decision in Arizona State Legislature v. Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission:

“Today, we take another step forward in our efforts to improve accountability and reform the way government works. I’m pleased with the Court’s decision upholding the constitutionality of independent redistricting commissions. When partisan state legislatures draw Congressional districts, it so often leads to gerrymandering, which leads directly to less competition and the increased partisan gridlock you’re seeing in Congress today. I have long believed that states should take redistricting powers away from partisan politicians and hand them over  to independent, non-partisan commissions. Doing so will increase the competition and lead to better representation. While the decision today doesn’t make independent redistricting commissions mandatory, it makes clear that using these commissions is legal and just. As we move forward, I will continue to look for ways to improve and reform the way our government works.”

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