As a new legislative session begins, we renew our resolve to ensure real representation for the people of Pennsylvania.
Just days before the year ended, the international Electoral Integrity Project (EIP) released data from a survey of 726 political scientists from around the United States.
Respondents were asked about 49 core indicators of electoral integrity addressing all stages of the electoral cycle, with answers standardized to a 100 point index.
In an initial assessment of data, EIP analysts described “gerrymandered district boundaries” as the “the worst aspect of US voting procedures.”
“The practice ensures that representatives are returned time and again based on mobilizing the party faithful, without having to appeal more broadly to constituents across the aisle, which in turn exacerbates the bitter partisanship that plagues American politics.”
In overall ratings, Pennsylvania received a 56 out of 100, tying for fifth-from-last place with South Carolina and Mississippi.
For district boundaries, PA rated 11/100, third from last, just above Wisconsin and North Carolina, both embroiled in continuing redistricting litigation.
Take time to read the initial report and some of the coverage it received from Lancaster Online and Tribune Review.
Some links to the Electoral Integrity Project
http://thehill.com/homenews/news/312014-study-ranks-best-worst-states-for-electoral-integrity
http://thetimes-tribune.com/opinion/vote-fraud-by-politicians-1.2137510
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