So, what exactly is redistricting and why is it important? Redistricting is the process in which new boundaries for representational districts are drawn. These districts are redrawn every 10 years based on census data. Districts determine individual and community representation at the local, state, and federal levels. The process varies from state to state, and county to county. Some areas have independent commissions that draw maps, while others have their maps drawn by elected officials. When the latter occurs, the process is politicized, resulting in a risk of partisan or racial gerrymandering. This can drastically distort representation.