Rick (and others):

Doesn't the "bad" policy choice stem from having legislative -- political -- 
bodies involved in redistricting?  One set of issues about this question has 
to do with what the US constitution does nor does not permit (something about 
which I claim no expertise).  Another has to do with the underlying theory 
that lets politicians design these things.  Why not let impartial institutions 
(electoral tribunals, boundary commissions, whatever) make the tough choices 
here?  We don't let legislatures set monetary policy, why should we allow them 
to set the rules of "fair" play in elections?

Best, FL