How Does Partisan Gerrymandering Harm Political Parties Long-Term?

The vote-seat relationship is central to democratic governance, yet the effects of partisan gerrymandering on political parties' long-term health have been understudied. This article examines how districting bias impacts party vitality at multiple levels. We find that when disadvantaged by gerrymandered maps, parties face several negative consequences: candidates are less likely to run for office; those who do run often lack strong qualifications; donors become reluctant contributors; and general voter support declines. These findings demonstrate that excessive partisan advantage in redistricting harms democratic institutions beyond immediate electoral outcomes.

• District Selection: Parties shy away from contested districts due to gerrymandering-induced bias.
• Candidate Recruitment: When candidates run despite unfavorable maps, their qualifications are often weaker.
• Donor Behavior: Gerrymandered advantage discourages donations.
• Voter Choice: Ordinary voters show less support for the disadvantaged party.