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Prop 50: What is the Independent Redistricting Commission? LAist explains
Proposition 50 is supported most Democrats and opposed by most Republicans
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Jeff Kowalsky
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AFP via Getty Images
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Topline:
Proposition 50, if passed in November, would suspend the work of the California Independent Redistricting Commission, which was created in 2010 to take politics out of the process of redrawing political boundaries.
The backstory: The commission was backed by former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and millionaire Republican political donor Charles Munger Jr. It is composed of five Democrats, five Republicans and four independents.
The selection process: The California state auditor selects the commission. Applicants are barred from selection if they've been a candidate for federal or state office, a member of a party central committee, or a registered lobbyist.
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The details: Under Proposition 50, congressional maps drawn by the commission would be replaced by political boundaries crafted by Democrats. The likely result: five more Democrats would be elected to Congress from California and five fewer Republicans.
What Texas has to do with it: Texas redrew its political boundaries to favor Republicans at the behest of President Donald Trump. It was an effort to keep control of the House of Representatives in the hands of the GOP.
Prop. 50, championed by California Gov. Gavin Newsom, seeks to counter redistricting in Texas.
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But the game has changed: Congress voted to eliminate funding for public media across the country. Here at LAist that means a loss of $1.7 million in our budget every year. We want to assure you that despite growing threats to free press and free speech, LAist will remain a voice you know and trust. Speaking frankly, the amount of reader support we receive will help determine how strong of a newsroom we are going forward to cover the important news in our community.
We’re asking you to stand up for independent reporting that will not be silenced. With more individuals like you supporting this public service, we can continue to provide essential coverage for Southern Californians that you can’t find anywhere else. Become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission.
Thank you for your generous support and belief in the value of independent news.
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