Los Angeles, Monday, August 4, 2025– Jeanne Raya, one of the former Chairs of California’s first Independent Redistricting Commission, is urging Governor Gavin Newsom and Democratic lawmakers to proceed with caution before attempting to dismantle California’s voter-approved redistricting process. Her warning follows reports that the Governor is considering a special election this November to grant the Legislature power to redraw political boundaries.

“The solution to winning elections is not to manipulate the rules in favor of political parties, incumbents, or special interests,” said Raya. “Voters overwhelmingly demanded an end to backroom political gerrymandering when they created the Independent Redistricting Commission in 2008. That mandate still stands.”

Governor Newsom’s proposal appears to be a response to aggressive partisan redistricting efforts by Republicans in states like Texas. But Raya, a Democrat, small business owner, and lifelong resident of San Gabriel, believes California should lead by example—not follow the same partisan playbook.

“I am deeply troubled by the Trump Administration’s and Texas Republicans’ efforts to rig the system,” she said. “But the answer is not for Democrats to do the same. Californians—Democrats, Republicans, and independents—should all stand against any attempt to politicize our redistricting process.”

Raya also criticized the proposed special election’s financial impact at a time when California is facing a significant budget deficit. “It is irresponsible to spend tens of millions of taxpayer dollars to undo a system voters already approved—especially when those resources are needed elsewhere.”

She concluded with a direct call to action: “I urge Governor Newsom and legislative leaders to respect the will of the people. The Independent Redistricting Commission is one of California’s most important democratic reforms, and it must not be sacrificed for short-term political gain.”

The first California independent drawing of legislative and congressional district received overwhelming support from good government groups, newspaper endorsements and the public. The 2011 maps were challenged in court and upheld by the California Supreme Court.

Media Contact: Rob Wilcox  robwilcoxpr@gmail.com or (916) 396-0400