Gov. Tony Evers’ call to hold a special session to vote on banning partisan gerrymandering did not come to fruition Tuesday, but Republican Assembly leaders said they are “open” to future negotiations.
Evers originally announced the special session at his State of the State address on Feb. 17 to bring forward a constitutional amendment to ban partisan gerrymandering.
Republican lawmakers said they are willing to discuss the potential ban on gerrymandering further in an “effort to continue meaningful dialogue,” according to a statement released by Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, and Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August, R-Walworth.
In 2024 Evers signed new maps into law for the first time since 2011, redistricting the state’s legislative map that was previously considered to have some of the most gerrymandered districts in the country.
Wisconsin lacks an independent districting commission, which means maps are drawn by the Legislature. Republicans have maintained a majority in both chambers since 2011, and thus control redistricting.
In 2030, district lines will be redrawn again. Without a constitutional amendment, redistricting will be in the hands of the majority party.
Though no vote occurred, Assembly Republicans said they “view the Governor’s proposal as a first step” to build compromise.
“We hope that Governor Evers will agree to meet face-to-face with us to discuss our ideas on how to accomplish this shared goal,” they said in a statement.
Evers doubled down on his proposal saying there is “no room for compromise” when it comes to ensuring all voices across the state are heard.
“Rigging maps so that one political party stays in power is wrong, it’s anti-democratic and it’s un-American — there’s nothing to negotiate because there’s no room for compromise when it comes to making sure Wisconsinites’ voices matter and their votes count,” Evers’ statement said.
Staff Writer
