🤖 AI Summary
Overview
This episode explores California's bold response to Texas' gerrymandering efforts, as Governor Gavin Newsom and Democratic lawmakers propose a temporary redistricting plan to counter Republican gains. The discussion delves into the political, historical, and ethical implications of this move, as well as its potential impact on voters and democracy.
Notable Quotes
- You cannot preserve democracy by suspending it.
– Public commenter, opposing California's temporary gerrymandering plan.
- When they go low, we'll get down there with them.
– Laurel Rosenhall, on how California Democrats are shifting their political strategy.
- The people of California are not served well by a system that is so gerrymandered that 99% of the incumbents get re-elected in the districts that they themselves drew.
– Arnold Schwarzenegger, reflecting on the need for independent redistricting.
🗺️ California’s Retaliatory Redistricting Plan
- California Democrats propose a mid-decade redistricting to counter Texas Republicans' efforts to flip five congressional seats.
- Unlike Texas, California requires voter approval to redraw maps due to its independent redistricting system established in 2008.
- Governor Newsom frames the move as a necessary response to a state of emergency
for democracy, citing actions by the Trump administration and Republican-led states.
📜 The Legacy of Independent Redistricting in California
- The independent redistricting commission was championed by former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to reduce partisan gridlock and ensure competitive elections.
- Voters overwhelmingly supported the commission in multiple ballot measures, signaling a strong preference for nonpartisan map-drawing.
- Despite its success, Democrats now argue that temporary gerrymandering is essential to counter Republican tactics.
⚖️ Ethical and Political Tensions
- Critics, including Republicans and former redistricting commission members, argue that the plan undermines California's gold standard
for fair redistricting.
- Public opposition highlights concerns about hypocrisy, costs ($200–$250 million for a special election), and alienating voters who value the independent system.
- Supporters, including labor unions and Planned Parenthood, emphasize the urgency of protecting democracy from Republican power grabs.
🗳️ Voter Sentiment and Political Risks
- Polls suggest Californians still favor independent redistricting but may support this temporary measure due to dissatisfaction with the Trump administration.
- Former President Obama endorsed the plan, calling it a responsible approach,
while Arnold Schwarzenegger remains a vocal opponent.
- The outcome hinges on whether voters perceive the situation as an emergency justifying a departure from established norms.
🔄 The Broader Gerrymandering Arms Race
- Newsom's call for other Democratic states to follow suit raises concerns about escalating tit-for-tat gerrymandering nationwide.
- Structural limitations in other blue states, such as New York and Maryland, make replicating California's approach challenging.
- The debate underscores a larger question: Should parties focus on redistricting battles or invest in persuading voters through policy and outreach?
AI-generated content may not be accurate or complete and should not be relied upon as a sole source of truth.
📋 Episode Description
Texas is about to gerrymander five new house seats, and California is ready to retaliate. Gov. Gavin Newsom says that his state will also redraw its congressional maps to create five new districts, effectively fighting fire with fire.
Laurel Rosenhall, who covers California’s government and politics, discusses whether the state’s voters will actually go for this plan, whether it’ll work if they do, and what is at stake either way.
Guest: Laurel Rosenhall, a New York Times reporter covering California politics and government.
Background reading:
- Mr. Newsom and Democratic state lawmakers moved quickly to create new districts that could help their party flip five congressional seats.
- The Texas House approved a congressional map intended to help Republicans win five more U.S. House seats.
For more information on today’s episode, visit nytimes.com/thedaily. Transcripts of each episode will be made available by the next workday.
Photo: Mike Blake/Reuters
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