Six and One

The Committee on Gerrymander worked late into the night, meticulously drawing intricate lines on a map of the state. As fatigue set in, they sought respite in a game of poker. When the game concluded, the six Republican members found themselves bankrupt, while the lone Democrat had amassed all the money.

The following day, when the Committee was called to order for business, one of the unfortunate six rose to his feet and addressed the group. "Mr. Chairman," he began, "before we dedicate ourselves to the noble task of purifying politics in the interest of good government, I wish to reflect on the unfortunate events of last evening. If my memory serves me correctly, the disasters that befell the Majority of this honorable body have always occurred during the Minority's deal."

He paused for effect, his voice growing more fervent. "It is my solemn conviction, Mr. Chairman, and to affirm this belief, I pledge my life, my fortune, and my sacred honor, that that wicked and unscrupulous Minority redistricted the cards!"

The room fell silent, the weight of his accusation hanging in the air as the members exchanged glances, pondering the implications of his words.