PROP. 50

Concerns with Upcoming Prop. 50. The Return to CA Gerrymandering

This special CA election will have one issue, Proposition 50. This calls for a highly partisan redistricting map to be accepted over the voters approved, Independent Redistricting Commission; map. The excuse by Gov. Newsom he believes he is “just” in disenfranchising CA Republican voters, because Texas is doing the same to Democrats. Do two wrongs actually make a “right?” It is also very unusual as it is being done mid election cycle. Newsom, naturally, blames his decision on President Trump.

Gerrymandering, is a strategy employed in some states, after each 10 yr. US Census. Population changes in states require reallocating of Congressional Seats. This requires districts to be redrawn to reflect population changes. This assures congressional districts have balanced populations in the state. The fairness, or lack thereof, will affect each following 2 yr. election until the next Census.

“Gerrymandering” dates to 1812, when Governor Elbridge Gerry, of Mass. employed this corrupt political method.

The problem comes when highly partisans are in control of drawing the maps, areas of strong political preference can be split up and included (diluted into other areas.) “Gerrymandering,” by either party, seems grossly unfair. It is done to disenfranchise the will of the general public.

Further concerns over the special election for Prop. 50 is that the costs for this special election, is about $280 million. This, in our state, that is in the midst of a $12 billion deficit. The timing was insisted for political benefit ahead of the next three regular elections. Special elections also tend to have lower turnouts, benefiting activists.

Mark Fernwood

Prop. 50 Explained: Why redistricting matters & what it means for Californians 3 min ABC 10

https://ebudget.ca.gov/FullBudgetSummary.pdf Article

Democrats have a long history of gerrymandering 7 min