Conclusion

The Michigan Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission faces a challenging task. The legal and technical learning curve faced by Commissioners will be steep. The timeline for gaining public input and reaching consensus is short, and every Commissioner has a burden of individual responsibility. Commissioners will need to execute their duties with the highest standards of integrity and accountability. At the same time, the Commission has a unique opportunity to restore faith and trust in governance. For decades, the system of legislators drawing district lines has lacked accountability and often required court intervention. By creating the Commission, Michigan has taken a first step in repairing a flaw in the U.S. democratic system. By carrying out the new Michigan law’s mandate, the Commission can create an electoral system that is responsive to all Michiganders.