SACRAMENTO, Calif. — California Republicans have initiated a federal lawsuit in an effort to block a new U.S. House redistricting map that state voters approved through Proposition 50. This proposition, which received strong backing from Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, is designed to help Democrats potentially flip up to five congressional seats in the upcoming midterm elections. The GOP's lawsuit claims that the map-makers employed race as a determining factor to benefit Hispanic voters, which they argue violates the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment and the voting rights guaranteed by the 15th Amendment. Filed in the Central District of California by The Dhillon Law Group, the case was raised by plaintiffs including a state Republican lawmaker and several voters. At a recent news conference, lawyer Mike Columbo stated, “The map is designed to favor one race of California voters over others.”
Newsom's administration has stated they have not yet reviewed the lawsuit, but expressed confidence in the legality of the new map. With the midterm elections nearing, the outcome of this lawsuit could have significant ramifications, particularly as candidates prepare for voter signature collections starting December 19. Republicans have previously attempted similar legal challenges in California, facing limited success. Columbo hopes for a ruling in the coming weeks, as tensions persist over redistricting initiatives and their impact on electoral races.
Newsom's administration has stated they have not yet reviewed the lawsuit, but expressed confidence in the legality of the new map. With the midterm elections nearing, the outcome of this lawsuit could have significant ramifications, particularly as candidates prepare for voter signature collections starting December 19. Republicans have previously attempted similar legal challenges in California, facing limited success. Columbo hopes for a ruling in the coming weeks, as tensions persist over redistricting initiatives and their impact on electoral races.
