Newsom criticized for ‘blatant hypocrisy’ with redistricting push
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California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom is advocating for a special election to advance a redistricting map that favors Democrats. Critics are pointing out the contrast in his tone when another special election was called to remove him from office.
The Newsom recall vote cost the state and counties $276 million, according to an official projection by the California Department of Finance. On the other hand, the redistricting special election, scheduled for Nov. 4, is estimated to cost around $230 million.
At the upcoming special election, California voters will decide whether to temporarily suspend the map drawn by the independent commission in favor of a map passed by the legislature. Politico reported that California voters strongly favor the independent redistricting commission.
Newsom’s Response to Special Elections
Newsom previously criticized the 2021 recall vote against him as a waste of government resources. He called it a “Republican-backed recall” and expressed concerns about the cost and motivations behind the effort.
Other California Democrats, including Assembly member Marc Berman, also voiced frustration over the cost of the recall vote. However, they are now supporting the redistricting special election despite similar concerns about wasteful spending.
Democratic Hypocrisy
Some critics, like Jessica Millan Patterson from Stop Sacramento’s Power Grab, see the redistricting push as an example of Democratic hypocrisy. They accuse Newsom and California Democrats of prioritizing power over principled governance.
In response, Newsom defended the special election, stating that “there’s no price tag for democracy” and assuring that the state will fund the costs. County officials worried about the expenses have received reassurance from the governor.
Despite the criticism and concerns about the cost, Newsom and fellow Democrats remain committed to the redistricting special election as a means to counter efforts in other states and restore balance in Washington.
Conclusion
As the debate over special elections continues in California, the focus shifts to the upcoming redistricting vote and the implications it may have on the state’s political landscape. Critics and supporters alike will be watching closely as the November election approaches.
