Protect Fair Redistricting: Defend California's Independent Redistricting Process

California voters overwhelmingly approved citizen-led redistricting commissions in 2008 and 2010 to ensure that our congressional and legislative districts are drawn fairly, transparently, and without partisan interference. This process has become a national model for fair elections and representative democracy.

Now, in response to partisan gerrymandering in other states, some California leaders are proposing to temporarily suspend the independent commission and allow the legislature to redraw congressional districts. This would set a dangerous precedent, undermining the will of voters and opening the door to the same kind of political manipulation we condemn elsewhere.

We cannot fight gerrymandering by adopting the same undemocratic tactics. Instead, California should double down on its commitment to fair, community-driven redistricting and call for national standards to protect voting rights everywhere.

We urge the California Legislature and Governor Newsom to reject any measure that would override the independent redistricting process. Stand with the people of California and defend our democracy!