Fact check: When did the democratic states gerrymandering

1. Summary of the results

The analyses reveal that none of the sources provide a specific date for when Democratic states began gerrymandering. The term "gerrymander" was coined in 1812, establishing this as a long-standing practice in American politics ^[1]. The sources focus primarily on recent redistricting battles, particularly in Texas, where Republican-led efforts have prompted Democratic responses.

Illinois is identified as one of the most gerrymandered states in the country, with Democrats dominating state electoral politics ^[2]. The sources indicate that Democratic-led states like Illinois have been involved in gerrymandering practices alongside Republican-led states like Texas ^[3]. Current developments show that California Governor Gavin Newsom and New York Governor Kathy Hochul are planning to respond to Texas' mid-decade redistricting by potentially eliminating GOP-held seats in their states ^[4].

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

The original question assumes Democratic states engaged in gerrymandering at a specific point in time, but the analyses reveal that gerrymandering is a bipartisan practice that has occurred throughout American history. The sources demonstrate that:

• Both major political parties engage in gerrymandering when they control state legislatures and redistricting processes ^[3]
• Republican-led states like Texas have been accused of gerrymandering, while Democratic-led states like Illinois have also been involved in the practice ^[3]
• The Princeton Gerrymandering Project has developed mathematical algorithms to create fair district maps and has given low grades to states with heavily gerrymandered districts regardless of party control ^[3]

The analyses show that current redistricting battles are reactive rather than initiating - Democrats in some states are considering sidestepping commissions to counter Republican redistricting efforts ^[1]. This suggests gerrymandering is an ongoing strategic response between parties rather than a one-time Democratic initiative.

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original question contains an implicit bias by suggesting that Democratic states specifically initiated gerrymandering at a particular time, when the evidence shows gerrymandering is a bipartisan practice with historical roots dating back over 200 years ^[1].

The framing implies Democrats are uniquely responsible for gerrymandering, while the analyses clearly demonstrate that both Republican and Democratic states engage in this practice ^[3]. The question also assumes there was a specific moment when "Democratic states gerrymandering" began, but the sources indicate this is an ongoing, cyclical practice that occurs during redistricting periods following each census.

Political parties and their leadership benefit from perpetuating narratives that blame the opposing party exclusively for gerrymandering, as this allows them to justify their own redistricting efforts as defensive measures rather than acknowledging the bipartisan nature of the practice.