Federal judges toss redistricting maps

Judges provide no remedy, state will appeal

Maps drawn by the state GOP to help secure majorities in Madison have been rejected by a panel of federal judges.  

On a 2-1 vote, the court has ruled the legislative redistricting maps drawn up by Republicans in 2011 are unconstitutional.  

Elections already decided with the maps – including the one two weeks ago – will not be changed by the decision.

The decision could have implications nationwide depending on an appeal the U.S. Supreme Court. State attorney general Brad Schimel says he will appeal.  

Redistricting happens every 10 years after the census.  

The last effort by Wisconsin Republicans was seen by some as creating some of the most heavily skewed partisan maps in the nation and led to calls for a nonpartisan process to redraw legislative districts.

Responding to Monday’s ruling, La Crosse Democratic state senator Jennifer Shilling said, “We’ve known for years that Republican politicians have abused their power to rig Wisconsin elections in their favor … I am relieved that our judicial system is helping to hold Republicans accountable for their unconstitutional partisan power grabs.” 

The court has directed both sides in the redistricting case to submit briefs within 30 days about how to fix the maps.