The Define-Combine Procedure

Why do we need a new approach?

Partisan gerrymandering harms democratic representation. It allows parties to undermine electoral competition by drawing districts that create, enhance, or lock in a partisan advantage and shield representatives from accountability. It can make legislatures less representative of the public.

What is the Define-Combine Procedure?

DCP is a new method for drawing redistricting maps that divides power between the two parties, but does not require any bipartisan cooperation.

Why does DCP work?

DCP works by reducing the ability of either party to engage in “packing”—the strategy of putting as many supporters of the opposing party into as few districts as possible.

How do we know DCP works?

In our article, we show that DCP works using mathematical models and computer simulations. Using the 2020 presidential election results for every state, we ran thousands of simulations producing maps using DCP and “unilateral redistricting” where a single party controls the process.

How could DCP be used?

DCP could be used by state legislatures, independent commissions, or courts when drawing new districting plans. Commissions could use DCP to produce maps without requiring bipartisan cooperation or a tiebreaker. Courts could use DCP to produce remedial maps in partisan gerrymandering disputes.