California Republicans have filed a lawsuit against Governor Gavin Newsom’s redistricting plan, marking their second legal challenge in a week. The GOP and anti-gerrymandering groups argue that the plan, which will be on the ballot as Proposition 50, is unconstitutional. They claim it bypasses the state’s independent redistricting commission and favors Democrats.
Republican legislators have criticized the plan in fiery speeches, emphasizing that redistricting should be nonpartisan. Some have even lightly criticized President Donald Trump for encouraging red states to redraw maps for political advantage. Despite their efforts, the GOP finds it challenging to separate Trump from the redistricting debate, as he recently threatened to sue California to stop Newsom’s plan.
Trump stated, “I think I’m going to be filing a lawsuit pretty soon and I think we’re going to be very successful in it,” suggesting the lawsuit would be filed through the Department of Justice. However, the White House has not provided details on the potential lawsuit.
The opposition campaign against Proposition 50 has already reached Californians through mail and social media. Pamphlets funded by Republican operatives and good governance advocates warn against “unconstitutional gerrymandering” and a “political power grab.” According to CalMatters, Corrin Rankin, chair of the California Republican Party, emphasized that the issue should focus on what’s best for Californians.
The California Supreme Court denied the GOP’s first legal challenge, but the group argues that circumstances have changed now that the election is officially scheduled. Newsom’s campaign dismissed the latest lawsuit, with spokesperson Hannah Milgrom stating, “They will lose.”
The potential involvement of Trump could energize the campaign for Proposition 50, which currently shows mixed support in polls. A survey by the UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies and the Los Angeles Times found the measure leading 48% to 32% among likely voters. Newsom has responded to Trump’s comments with a social media post saying, “BRING IT.”
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