Party control over redistricting

[HAnnA MArin County]

This is the first year since I became interested in politics that the concept of redistricting has been used. I'm still a little confused on the process, so if anyone could clarify for me, I'd appreciate it. I just have a couple questions.

First, when is the redistricting going to take place? In November 2010, representatives will still be elected from the current congressional districts, right? I'm assuming they will go into effect for the 113th Congress (2013-2015)? Also, does the redistricting process take place on the same day (do all the state legislatures do it on the same day)? I guess the question I'm asking is when will we know the new congressional districts?

Also, is there any data out there right now as to what states will gain/lose seats and which ones will stay the same? Someone on here (believe his name is muon2) has a neat little diagram as his signature on here; was just wondering how people come up with that. I know it's based upon population but was just curious if there's a website out there that shows the forecast/most likely seats/district each state will have.

Sorry for the confusing questions and thank you to anyone who answers them for me

[HAnnA MArin County]

Thank you muon2 for answering my question. I'm working for the U.S. Census Bureau so I knew that population had something to do with it. Now I just have one more question for you. I've heard speculation that my state is going to lose a seat, but then I've heard that we are going to keep our current 11 electoral votes. I notice in your map you have us at 11. What's your reasoning behind that? I don't think our population has increased that much. I think we're hovering just below the 6 million mark. Thanks again.

[HAnnA MArin County]

Thank you to everyone who explained the redistricting process to me. I think I understand now