Assessing South Carolinaʹs 1990s congressional districting

In this study, the authors employ a computer-intensive method to assess the factual basis for a race-as-predominant-factor claim against South Carolinaʹs congressional districting plan. They use four algorithms that weight traditional districting criteria (equal population, the preservation of county integrity, and district area compactness) to generate 10,000 alternative plans containing a total of 60,000 congressional districts. Based upon the analysis of these plans, the authors conclude that: (1) race is a factor in the design of South Carolinaʹs congressional districts; (2) race predominates over the preservation of county lines; and (3) race may predominate over district compactness.