Gerrymandering. Explain this to me like I am 10 years old. [View all]

[smirkymonkey]

I understand what it is, in that it is the political manipulation of electoral district boundaries with the intent of creating undue advantage for a party, group, or socio-economic class within the constituency.

What I don't understand is why it is allowed in this country. it seems to me that a state's legislature (whatever party they may be, and usually these unfair boundaries end up favoring the right wing) should not have such control over the way districts are drawn.

There should be a bi-partisan committee that draws up districts based upon natural borders and/or demographic groups and allows that to stand.

Is it just a matter of one party being in power in a state that allows this to happen and that is it? And why are there no checks/balances on this kind of political behavior? It just seems so unfair and so wrong.

I fear this will be the end of us, and i really want to know why this is even a thing in the first place.

Sorry for my ignorance, but this is something that has been stuck in my craw for a long time and i want a GOOD answer, not the usual political run-around bullshit. Thanks in advance.