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Use the geospatial representation of a hypothetical redistricting plan to answer the question.

An illustration shows an oval shape containing 6 squares labeled D and 8 squares labeled R. The squares are scattered randomly inside the oval. Two groups of squares are encircled. At the top of the oval, 3 boxes labeled D and 4 boxes labeled R are circled together by a solid line. At the bottom of the oval, 3 boxes labeled D and 4 boxes labeled R are circled together by a solid line.

Based on the geospatial representation, which of the following best describes the redistricting plan?

(1 point)
Responses

This does not reflect gerrymandering.
This does not reflect gerrymandering.

This is an example of using the gerrymandering technique of packing.
This is an example of using the gerrymandering technique of packing.

This is an example of using the gerrymandering technique of cracking.
This is an example of using the gerrymandering technique of cracking.

This an example of using the gerrymandering technique of stacking.
This an example of using the gerrymandering technique of stacking.
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1 answer

Based on the description provided, the redistricting plan illustrated in the oval shape shows two groups of squares where both groups consist of a mix of boxes labeled D (Democrat) and R (Republican).

In the top group, there are 3 D boxes and 4 R boxes. In the bottom group, there are again 3 D boxes and 4 R boxes. This suggests that the districts created in the plan are designed to maintain a balance in terms of representation but still allow for the majority party (R in this case) to carry each district.

However, if we consider gerrymandering techniques:

  • Packing involves concentrating a particular party’s voters into a few districts to reduce their influence in other districts.
  • Cracking involves spreading a particular party’s voters across many districts to dilute their voting power.
  • Stacking is less commonly referred to and usually describes a situation where voters are placed in districts in ways that favor one party.

Since the solid line encircles groups of D and R in the same proportions, but similarly maintains a pattern where R is in the majority, this plan more closely resembles an example of packing. The arrangement consolidates Democratic votes into specific districts while keeping Republican control over others.

Therefore, the best description of the redistricting plan based on the information provided would be:

This is an example of using the gerrymandering technique of packing.