I mentioned the possibility of a partisan redistricting commission a couple of days ago. Long story short, the Rose Institute, a long-time conservative leaning “good government” organization had some serious connections to Republicans. Notably, the project lead had actually worked for a Republican Congressman. And when they were asked about their donors, they declined saying that there was no conflict of interest.
Well, it seems that decision has come back to bite them, as they were disqualified by the commission. The commissioners then went on to unanimously appoint Karin McDonald of Berkeley’s Statewide Database and Research Center as the consultant responsible for drawing the maps. McDonald is a DTS voter who has never worked for Democrats.
Of course, there is still likely to be something of a stir about this, as Rose Institute still has five days to challenge their disqualification.
note: title changed to show correct prop title.
Top two primary and new districts. As if we didn’t have enough to keep track of.
This is a good thing (Martha Stewart pun intended) and hopefully the commission can draw a map with a little help. The demographics of the state are changing enough that the republicans will lose numbers and influence in almost any way it is drawn. Need to be ready for the yelling and screaming by the republicans that will occur. The public opinion will naturally be behind a citizens commission (when compared to legislative drawn map). so be prepared to help it out in its task.
This is Great News !!
The commissioners must have know how it would look to have a Republican leaning organizaton ‘advising’ them
WHY not use UC or CSU professors to advise the commission ?
I’m SURE they come cheaper
I’m Sure they would be more qualified in democgraphics
UC is a great resource
Why not use it ??