What is the term for the process of determining the number of Representatives for each state?

The process of determining the number of Representatives for each state is known as apportionment. This occurs after the decennial census, where the population of each state is counted. Based on the census results, the total number of seats in the House of Representatives (which is fixed at 435) is divided among the states in such a way that reflects their population relative to one another. States with larger populations receive more representatives, while those with smaller populations receive fewer. This is crucial for ensuring that representation in Congress accurately reflects the demographic makeup of the country.

In contrast, the other terms are related but distinct processes. Redistricting refers to the drawing of district boundaries within states after apportionment has determined how many representatives each state will have. Gerrymandering is the manipulation of district boundaries to favor one political party over another, often leading to shapes that are not geographically logical. Enumeration specifically refers to the act of counting or measuring, which is part of the census but does not encompass the process of assigning representatives based on that count. Thus, apportionment is the term that encapsulates the process of allocating congressional seats according to population data.