Iowa's second proposed redistricting map released

Iowa's second round of proposed redistricting maps are out and analysts say Republicans should feel more agreeable toward them than the first ones they rejected earlier this month.

Why it matters: The map legislators ultimately choose will determine the distribution of political power at the legislative and Congressional levels for the next 10 years.

• And if these don't pass — legislators will move on to a third round of map proposals that a Republican-dominated Legislature can amend.

The big picture: The map breaks up Iowa's urban strongholds that typically lean left: Des Moines, Ames, Iowa City and Cedar Rapids, tweeted Dave Wasserman of Cook Political Report.

• "This is a dream GOP map," Wasserman said.

Zoom in: It also pits Democratic Rep. Cindy Axne against Republican Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks.

• Wapello County, where Miller-Meeks resides, is drawn into the third district, which Axne represents.
• Axne's seat becomes more competitive because the Third District loses more urban areas, like Warren County, which covers portions of Norwalk and West Des Moines. Instead, it gains more rural and red-leaning counties like Wapello and Davis.

What they're saying: Republican legislators have remained mum on the maps, but House and Senate Democrats already said they plan to approve them.

What's next: The Legislature will reconvene Oct. 28 to make a decision.