California Republicans have intensified their scrutiny of the Democratic Party’s stance on redistricting, citing recent statements from lawmakers that allegedly contradict their past support for independent redistricting. The GOP highlights that key Democratic legislators, including Senators and Assemblymembers, had previously praised these commissions. For instance, Sen. Benjamin Allen of Santa Monica spoke in July about the importance of redistricting commissions versus ‘incumbents drawing their own lines,’ emphasizing the need for a transparent and impartial process. Similarly, Assemblymember Esmeralda Soria of Merced advocated for a more transparent redistricting process, stating that the current statewide commission model has been a good example of public participation in shaping electoral districts.
Newsom’s initiative, which seeks to bypass the Citizens’ Redistricting Commission and introduce mid-census redistricting plans, has drawn significant criticism from Republican lawmakers. State Sen. Roger Niello, among others, accused the state of undermining the commission by drafting new congressional districts behind closed doors with D.C.-based political operatives. The Republicans argue that this approach compromises the integrity of the redistricting process by allowing elected officials to influence district boundaries for political gains. Meanwhile, former Fox News host Steve Hilton, running for governor, has launched a ‘legal war’ against the redistricting plan, claiming it represents an unconstitutional power grab by theDemocrats.
While some Democrats, such as state Sen. Scott Wiener and Assemblymember Avelino Valencia, have consistently advocated for independent redistricting, the GOP contends that the recent actions of the majority party indicate a shift in position. This has led to accusations of selective memory, with Republicans arguing that the Democrats’ previous support for the commissions is being overlooked. The upcoming November ballot, which could determine the future of redistricting in California, is now under increased political scrutiny as both parties vie for influence over the electoral map.