Redistricting results leave GOP hoping to make gains

0 Comments | Insight on the News, Dec 24, 2001 | by Hans S. Nichols

As states unveil their new congressional maps, the GOP quietly is predicting that it will gain seats because of redistricting. With 22 states having submitted their redistricting plans, Republicans aren't backing away from their forecast of picking up eight to 10 seats.

California's plans were expected to cause Republicans heartburn, but incumbent Democratic state senators did not want to get too risky. In a deal cut with the Republican minority, state Senate Democrats ended up drawing lines that didn't give them much in return. According to several estimates, the California delegation now will pick up only one additional seat. "California Democrats in the state Senate really saved us," says a GOP aide.

Republicans played matchmaker in Michigan, where six incumbent Democrats will vie for three slots. And in both Indiana and Illinois, Democrats will lose one seat, predicts a spokesman at the National Republican Congressional Committee. Between Georgia and Michigan, one thing is clear: Gerrymandering is an unequal employment opportunity.

HANS S. NICHOLS IS A REPORTER FOR Insight.