Letter to the editor: Gerrymandering blocks Pa. innovation

Given its abundant resources, Pennsylvania underperforms economically. That’s according to the Brookings Institute report, “Commonwealth of Innovation.” The report recommends that state government take “catalytic steps” to “unlock” Pennsylvania’s innovation potential.

Former Ohio Chief Justice and Lt. Gov. Maureen O’Connor, a Republican, recently noted one factor blocking economic development — gerrymandering. O’Connor, now a member of the redistricting reform group Citizens Not Politicians, explains that gerrymandering increases legislative extremism, creating less-stable business climates and thwarting long-term business planning.

By comparing pre- and post-gerrymandered districts, economists are confirming this assertion. Legislators “insulated” by gerrymandering more often vote with their party and bring less money back to their districts, according to researchers from the University of Alberta. A team headed by Pat Akey from the University of Toronto showed that consumer credit declined when district shapes became more distorted. Akey’s team concluded that gerrymandering-protected legislators don’t advocate enough for supportive legislation or regulation to create prosperous economies in their districts.

These are real pocketbook issues. Pennsylvanians should insist that our legislators support a citizens’ redistricting commission built on models that have reduced gerrymandering in other states. It would be fairer for residents across the commonwealth and a smart business move.

JoAnn Kennedy Flanagan

Shadyside