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Dear Editor;
2021 is the year that the legislature approves new maps for voting districts. Through referendums and resolutions, Wisconsinites in red and blue counties have shown strong support for Fair Maps, a system that doesn't use data about political preferences so doesn't skew districts to favor one party over the other. We have sent the message, so we can rest assured that the legislators will abide by their constituents' wishes, right? Unfortunately not.
In hearings before the Supreme Court, when asked about the purpose of drawing new maps, Misha Tseytlin, a lawyer for the Republican members of the legislature, stated, "It should not be fairness." Their objective is to have new maps that closely resemble the current ones. These maps were drawn up in secret to ensure that Republicans maintain a majority in the legislature even as Democrats usually win statewide elections.
So what can we do?
1. Urge our legislators to support Fair Maps.
2. Sign up to submit oral or written comments with the People's Maps Commission@govstatus.egov.com/peoplesmaps.
Let's support fairness. Thank you.

Kathie Swanson
Mineral Point, WI