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Redistricting and the Equal Protection Clause FRQ

In 2025, a federal court blocked Texas from using a newly redrawn congressional map, concluding that race was the predominant factor in drawing several districts. Texas officials argued that the map was drawn purely for partisan advantage.

Question 1

Short answer

Describe the holding in Shaw v. Reno (1993) and explain its relevance to modern redistricting cases.

Question 2

Short answer

Explain the difference between racial gerrymandering and partisan gerrymandering in terms of judicial review.

Question 3

Short answer

Explain how the court’s decision in the Texas case reflects the principle of federalism.

Question 4

Short answer

Discuss one implication of court intervention in state redistricting processes for democratic representation.

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