Update: New North Dakota legislative map

Big population gains in North Dakota made for big changes to the state’s legislative map during the 2021 redistricting process. It took about three months to put together, and now North Dakota has a new map. This is a big deal, because it will be used for the 2022 through 2030 legislative elections in our state.

Please click here to review the new map. The Redistricting Committee adhered to 47 districts, the same as the prior map. You’ll notice that it includes major changes to Districts 4 (now split for the House of Representatives because of the Fort Berthold Reservation), 8 (now includes Emmons County), 9 (now split for the House because of the Turtle Mountain Reservation), 10 (now in Fargo), 19 (now in extreme northeast North Dakota), 23 (now near Williston), 26 (now in far-western North Dakota), 27 (pushed further south in the Fargo area), and 39 (dramatically reduced in size). Altogether, these are major changes compared to maps approved in 2001 and 2011. The changes affect about 30 current legislators.

To be clear, Districts 10, 23 and 26 are completely new districts and their former population has been absorbed by neighboring districts. Please read this article from The Forum if you’re interested in the overall effects of the new map. Also, please read this letter to the editor from a local political science professor if you’re interested in learning more about why split districts are beneficial. Subdividing districts containing Native American reservations make North Dakota compliant with the Voting Rights Act of 1965 — a law that’s over 50 years old!

Since five even-numbered districts have 25 percent or more new voters, they will also have to campaign for election in 2022. These districts include 8, 20, 28, 36, and 44. All odd-numbered districts are up for election in 2022, so that’s why we’re pointing this out. Additionally, there will probably have to be House races in District 4 due to the subdivision.

As you know, North Dakota Voters First pushed for House subdistricts throughout the whole state to bring elected officials closer to their voters. Previously, this was discussed at length during the 2001 North Dakota redistricting process. Our neighbor to the east, Minnesota, currently uses this system. The concept of split North Dakota House districts was also recently endorsed by the Bismarck Tribune.

During the 2021 redistricting process, we were disappointed to see the overuse of incumbent protection, scheduled time periods for public comment not being adhered to, agendas not being posted in a timely fashion, and draft maps not being posted prior to most meetings. This was unfortunate. That’s why an independent redistricting commission would be beneficial in the future.

We hope that you’ve enjoyed these updates regarding the 2021 North Dakota legislative redistricting process. We’ll continue to keep you updated on further voting rights issues in our state.

Sincerely,

North Dakota Voters First