As Governor Gavin Newsom continues his campaign for mid-decade redistricting, Common Cause is urging lawmakers to reject the governor’s plans. The organization argues that these plans contradict the California Constitution. Common Cause is known for advocating independent redistricting commissions as a pro-democracy reform.
The group played a significant role in the 2008 ballot initiative that led to the establishment of the California Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission. This commission is considered one of the most independent redistricting processes in America. Common Cause has also been involved in similar efforts in other states like Michigan and Ohio.
“Gavin Newsom is wrong on redistricting. It is not the leadership California needs right now. It is not the leadership the nation needs now or in the future,” said Darius Kemp, California Executive Director of Common Cause. “California is the gold standard when it comes to people-first districts. Governor Newsom can still choose to lead with our state as a gold standard, rather than pick a fight that honestly, his political party cannot and will not win.”
For those unfamiliar with independent redistricting commissions, more information about Common Cause’s work can be found through their resources.
