To the editor:

The League of Women Voters of Kansas does not support a tit-for-tat approach to redistricting. The Kansas and Missouri State legislatures considering redrawing their maps midcycle reflects political gamesmanship that erodes public trust in our democracy. Redistricting must be fair, transparent and rooted in the voices of voters — not partisan retaliation. In 2022 the League of Women Voters of Kansas developed a position stating that responsibility for legislative and congressional redistricting should be vested in an entity that is independent of the legislature.

Manipulating maps for political gain is a disservice to the people. The League stands for maps that reflect communities, not political calculations. Groups of people with shared interests or identities must be kept together in a single district where their voices aren’t diluted. Voters deserve stable, fair representation — not to be used as pawns in a power grab. When politicians rewrite the rules midgame to protect their control, democracy loses.

The League of Women Voters stands for policy that ensures fairness for voters. Fair maps must be drawn legally, with public input, and with full transparency. We stand ready to protect the voices of all voters because that is what our democracy is built on. Please let your legislative representative know where you stand on mid-cycle redistricting.

Marlene Merrill, president,

League of Women Voters of Kansas