Heimlich's History: Baker v. Carr

Background and Facts

• Year Decided: 1962
• Location: Tennessee
• Issue: Tennessee had not redrawn its legislative districts for over 60 years.
  • Urban populations grew faster than rural populations.
  • Resulted in disproportionate voting power: rural votes counted more than urban votes.

Legal Context

• Previous Supreme Court Stand: Redistricting issues were deemed non-justiciable (political, not judicial matters).

Key Constitutional Principle

• 14th Amendment: Equal Protection Clause.
  • Prohibits states from denying any person equal protection under the law.
  • Refusal to redraw districts was seen as denying equal protection.

Court's Decision

• Outcome: Redistricting issues were ruled as justiciable.
• Impact on Justices: Decision was stressful and contributed to a justice’s poor health.

Significance of the Case

1. One-Person One-Vote Doctrine
   • States required to apportion representatives equally among people.
2. Redefinition of Political Representation
   • Many states had to redraw their districts post-decision.
   • Aimed to balance voting power between rural and urban areas.
3. Supreme Court's Role
   • Increased involvement in political questions like redistricting.
   • Established a six-part test to decide future justiciable vs. political issues.

Conclusion

• Baker v. Carr fundamentally changed the nature of electoral representation and increased judicial oversight in legislative apportionment.

Additional Resources

• For more coverage on required cases, find additional videos and resources.
• Review packets available for exam preparation.