Michigan's other big issue: 'Redistricting wars'

The battles over Gov. Rick Snyder's budget and a proposed new Detroit River bridge may be grabbing the Michigan headlines these days. But another battle with high stakes and plenty of human drama is brewing beneath the surface: The redistricting wars. Michigan has lost another seat in Congress, and once again, the survivors will be playing a game of musical chairs. Additionally, the legislature has to redraw every one of their own seats.

This happens every decade, and has often led to epic battles between the parties. Twenty years ago, things got so bad that a federal court rejected both the Democratic and Republican plans and drew Michigan's congressional districts -something that cost several incumbents their jobs.

But it seems this time, things are different.

Democrats are essentially powerless. Republicans have the governorship, huge majorities in both houses of the legislature and a majority on the Michigan Supreme Court. Barring a plan so outrageous it is likely to attract federal scrutiny, Republicans can pretty much do as they see fit.

Read more: http://www.windsorstar.com/news/Michigan+other+issue+Redistricting+wars/4794513/story.html