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Alaska Redistricting Board moves to appeal judge's redistricting decision
February 11, 2012
FAIRBANKS, Alaska: Judge Michael McConahy made a controversial ruling last week which, if upheld, could lead to the redrawing of up to 10 election districts in the state. There are 40 election districts in Alaska. McConahy found House District 38 must to be reconfigured because it does not meet the constitutional requirements laid out in Article VI, Section 6 of the Alaska Constitution.[1]
On February 7, 2012, the Alaska Redistricting Board voted unanimously to appeal Judge McConahy's decision. While the Board agreed that some of the districts could easily be redrawn, they argued that the redrawing of Districts 37 and 38 could hinder the voting strength of Alaska Natives.[2]
- “We are very concerned that what the judge is asking us to do, is to erase all the hard work the board has done and adopt a plan that significantly diminishes Alaska Native voting strength statewide, so that's a real concern for the board.”[2] -State Redistricting Board Director Taylor Bickford.
The Board will make its oral arguments next month.
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