Gerrymandering fucks

Politicians really are the semi-intelligent underbelly of society. They're only smart enough to figure out how to finagle the system to their advantage, as opposed to figuring out worthwhile policy that might actually help their constituents.

The practice of gerrymandering--splitting up electoral districts to favor one party or candidate--is a good time-tested example. Employed by everyone from mob bosses to racists, Republicans and Democrats alike, it's almost become accepted as one of the incurable diseases of politics. Currently Republicans are trying to split up Austin into three districts from its current one. I'd read something about this in the Chronicle, but my friend Jason explains it more clearly. (I also just realized I neglected to add him to the radar. Jason, if you're reading this, I apologize.)

Jason also calls attention to an online survey on redistricting that the Reps are running off their site--a polling location as fair and unbalanced as Fox News--which I think we should all go cast a vote on. Go here, tell them what's up, pass it along to your friends: http://www.texasgop.org/poll.php

Of course, this is especially annoying because it's Republicans, and they've been playing dirty for a while now, but it'd piss me off if the Dems were up to it too. C'mon, you fat cats, do something worthwhile with your time and energy.