Gerrymandering, SCOTUS, More: Democracy Docket’s Complete 2024 Investigative Analysis

By Crystal Hill

From court battles over fair electoral maps to the emergence of right-wing groups seeking to suppress the vote, 2024 was an eventful year. Our investigative coverage reflects a range of issues that were at the forefront, including gerrymandering, legislation expanding or restricting voting access and the general election.

In the first half of 2024, numerous cases over redistricting were in full force. At the same time, right-wing organizations were laying the groundwork in the courts to restrict voting rights, such as undermining the federal Voting Rights Act and challenging laws that make it easier for people to vote. Additionally, pro-voting groups were challenging laws that restricted voting access, such as Mississippi’s voting ban for people with certain felony convictions.

In the summer, all eyes were on the U.S. Supreme Court. The majority-conservative court released a slew of decisions that were slammed by some as being anti-democratic, like the presidential immunity ruling that granted Donald Trump at least presumptive immunity from prosecution for official acts.

All of this culminated in the 2024 election on Nov. 5. Ahead of the race, the Democracy Docket team’s content focused on preparing readers — when to vote, how to vote, etc. The post-election period spawned more legal challenges as candidates in tight races, like Pennsylvania’s Senate match, sought to contest certain votes. As the race nears its conclusion, the fight over voting rights is sure to continue in 2025.

Here’s what the team published this year:

Redistricting

Judiciary

Right-Wing Watch

Voting Rights and Litigation

2024 Election