Sign in Subscribe
Congressional representatives

California Republicans Vow to Fight Disenfranchisement of Voters Amid Redistricting Concerns

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

California Congressman David Valadao and the state's Republican Congressional delegation have issued a joint statement opposing Governor Gavin Newsom's plan to override the independent redistricting commission and disenfranchise voters. The move, according to the delegation, would undermine the will of the people and concentrate power in the hands of Sacramento politicians. This development comes as the state's Citizens Redistricting Commission, established by the VOTERS FIRST Act of 2010, has already received input from tens of thousands of Californians on district boundaries.

Key Takeaways:

  • The VOTERS FIRST Act of 2010, passed by California voters, granted the independent California Citizens Redistricting Commission sole authority over drawing congressional districts.
  • Governor Newsom's plan to override the commission would give Sacramento politicians control over redistricting, potentially leading to a partisan gerrymander, which the voters of California explicitly rejected.
  • The Citizens Redistricting Commission incorporated feedback from tens of thousands of Californians, creating districts that represent local communities rather than catering to a single party's interests.
  • As of the statement, Republicans held only 9 out of 52 congressional seats, despite winning 38% of the statewide vote.
  • Governor Newsom's proposed statewide special election to silence opposition is seen as a misuse of taxpayer funds, particularly when the state is running a $20 billion deficit.

Statistics:

  • The VOTERS FIRST Act of 2010 was passed by California voters by more than 20 points.
  • 38% of the statewide vote in California went to Republicans, yet they hold only 9 out of 52 congressional seats.
  • The state's Citizens Redistricting Commission received input from tens of thousands of Californians on district boundaries.
  • Governor Newsom's proposed special election could cost California taxpayers $200 million.
  • The state is running a $20 billion deficit despite the planned special election.

Sources:

  • Statement by Congressman David Valadao and the California Republican Congressional delegation.
  • VOTERS FIRST Act of 2010.

Read more