To the Editor, The term “gerrymander” goes all the way back to 1812, when political maps were drawn to benefit those in power instead of the people. Two hundred years later, not much has changed.

At the end of the day, gerrymandering is politicians choosing their voters instead of voters choosing their representatives. When that happens, elections become predictable, accountability starts to slip, and people begin to feel like their vote doesn’t really matter.

This isn’t just about Congress. It opens the door for the same kind of map-drawing in the Virginia House of Delegates, the Virginia Senate, and even at the local level. That means decisions about our schools, taxes, and community could be shaped by lines drawn for political advantage instead of fairness.

This isn’t about party, it’s about fairness. District lines should reflect real communities, not political strategy. Every voter deserves to have an equal say, no matter where they live.

If we go down this road, we’re not just talking about one election. We’re setting the tone for years to come, and once that door is opened, it’s hard to close.

Let’s keep it simple. Keep it fair. Protect the voice of the people.

VOTE NO. Very Respectfully, -Jeff McCormack Chairman, Westmoreland County Republican Committee