从“杰利蝾螈”到“特朗普蝾螈”——起底美国选区划分党争怪象

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing conflict between the Republican and Democratic parties over the redistricting of congressional districts in Texas is primarily driven by the Republican desire to gain additional seats in the House of Representatives for the upcoming midterm elections, with the process being directly influenced by former President Trump [1][4][5]. Group 1: Redistricting Conflict - The Texas Senate passed a bill to redraw congressional districts, aiming to increase Republican seats in the House [1][2]. - The last redistricting occurred approximately five years ago, which is unusual as states typically redistrict every ten years following the census [2]. - Currently, Texas has 38 congressional seats, with Republicans holding 25 and Democrats 12, and the proposed changes could potentially add five more seats for Republicans [2]. Group 2: Democratic Resistance - Over 50 Democratic state legislators have left Texas to prevent the House from reaching a quorum necessary for legislative work, effectively halting proceedings [2][3]. - The Republican leadership has threatened various actions to compel the return of the absent Democratic legislators, including civil arrest warrants and daily fines [2]. Group 3: Political Violence and Tensions - The political tensions have escalated to the point of threats of violence, as evidenced by a bomb threat at a hotel where Democratic legislators were staying [3]. - The Democratic walkout has drawn significant media attention and mobilized Democratic voters, despite the challenges in stopping the redistricting [3]. Group 4: Trump's Influence - Trump has been a key figure in pushing for the redistricting, suggesting that it could secure five additional congressional seats for Republicans [4][5]. - His influence extends beyond Texas, as he has encouraged other Republican-led states to consider similar redistricting efforts ahead of the midterm elections [4]. Group 5: Broader Implications - The redistricting battle is part of a larger trend where both parties are engaging in aggressive tactics to reshape the political landscape in their favor, with Democrats planning countermeasures in blue states [6][7]. - The term "gerrymandering" has evolved, with both parties openly acknowledging their intent to manipulate district boundaries for electoral advantage, reflecting a decline in trust in the democratic process [10][11].