The Daily 'The Run-Up': What 12 Years of Gerrymandering Has Done to Wisconsin
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Oct 22, 2022 
Reid Epstein, a seasoned political reporter for The New York Times, dives deep into Wisconsin's political turmoil shaped by 12 years of gerrymandering. He discusses the landmark protests sparked by Act 10 and how these events intensified partisan divides. Epstein highlights the marginalization of urban areas like Milwaukee and the tactics used to consolidate Republican power. The conversation also covers the implications of these changes for upcoming elections and the struggle for Democratic representation in an increasingly polarized landscape.
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Act 10 Protests
- In 2011, Wisconsin protesters opposed Governor Scott Walker's Act 10, limiting public employees' collective bargaining rights.
- Democratic senators fled the state to prevent a vote, but Republicans ultimately passed the law.
Walker's Zero-Sum Politics
- Wisconsin's political climate shifted under Scott Walker, prioritizing a zero-sum game approach.
- This approach focused on creating advantages for Republicans and disadvantages for Democrats.
Gerrymandering Strategy
- After gaining control, Republicans in Wisconsin created a redistricting map in secret.
- This map aimed to solidify their power by concentrating Democratic voters in a few districts.