Dr. Dre Backs Compton School Bond Amidst Controversy

Dr. Dre has publicly shown his support for a significant $360 million school bond in Compton, but there’s a twist: Rep. Maxine Waters is leading a campaign against it.

This surprising political clash has surfaced just before the vote on Measure CPT, which aims to finance new high schools and upgrade existing ones throughout the city.

While the renowned rapper stands firmly behind the proposition, Waters’ campaign materials have urged voters to reject it.

Titled “Congresswoman Maxine Waters Sample Ballot and Recommendations for Voters,” the flyer issued by her committee, Citizens for Waters, advises residents to cast a “no” vote on the CPT measure.

The recommendation has left school officials flabbergasted.

Micah Ali, president of the Compton Unified School District Board of Trustees, expressed his dismay. “I’m really confused, and many community members are trying to figure out her reasoning,” he stated.

Ali warned that if the measure fails, “Compton’s future will be limited.”

This bond would facilitate the reconstruction of Dominguez High School, a campus in dire need of upgrades, which has notable alumni including rapper Eazy-E and athletes Richard Sherman and Tyson Chandler.

Proponents of Measure CPT argue that it continues the district’s transformation of aging schools. Compton Unified has already invested millions in infrastructure improvements and the establishment of two new campuses.

At a groundbreaking ceremony in May at Centennial High School, both Waters and Dr. Dre were present.

Known for hits such as “Straight Outta Compton,” Dr. Dre has notably contributed $10 million for a new performing arts center at Compton High School.

Kendrick Lamar, during an event in May, humorously noted that Dr. Dre shows up to school “sometimes.”

Currently, Dr. Dre is appealing to the community to back this latest school endeavor.

In a statement issued Friday, he emphasized, “We are proud to work with Compton to support Measure CPT.”

A “yes” vote, he explained, would fund the modernization of Dominguez High School, similar to efforts already made at Compton and Centennial High Schools.

“Compton students deserve to learn in safe, supportive environments. The CPT measure is crucial for maintaining our progress and showing all students that their potential is important. Now is the time to keep advancing. Investing in our schools is investing in Compton’s future,” he added.

Some residents are left puzzled by Waters’ mailer, especially since it clarifies that Citizens for Waters produced it—not an official party—and that its stance on the mentioned issues isn’t clearly defined.

According to records referenced by Politico, Citizens for Waters has raised around $734,000 since January 2025, with notable contributors including billionaire Ron Burkle and media figure Byron Allen.