Schwarzenegger Challenges Newsom on Gerrymandering
Former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger has declared his intention to combat the gerrymandering efforts by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom in the state.
Previously, Schwarzenegger created an independent committee aimed at ensuring nonpartisan constituency mapping in California. However, Newsom is attempting to sidestep this committee to counteract Republican redistricting initiatives coming from Texas. This strategy is one that Schwarzenegger strongly opposes.
“He calls it the evil of gerrymandering, and that’s what it means. He thinks it’s really evil for politicians to take power from people,” remarked Daniel Kechel, a spokesperson for Schwarzenegger. “He’s against what Texas is doing and against the idea that California is racing to the bottom to do the same,” he continued, emphasizing that both approaches are mistaken.
“He remains committed to independent constituency changes nationwide. Removing gerrymandering is essential because we need politicians who genuinely care about what the people think,” he added.
To eliminate the current independent committee, Newsom will need a two-thirds majority in California’s legislature. He expressed confidence on Monday that the measure will succeed.
Reports suggest that Schwarzenegger is gearing up to campaign against Newsom’s district alterations. He is supported by various groups, including the Federation of Women’s Voters and Common Cause, who backed the independent committee’s formation.
“It’s a bit premature for him to fully launch his trademark Arnold Gerrymandering speech, but it’s definitely on the horizon,” Kechel noted.
A spokesperson for Newsom argued that this gerrymandering effort is primarily a response to actions taken during the Trump administration. It seeks to support redistricting initiatives in Texas, which is under GOP control.
This redistricting movement aims to secure a congressional seat ahead of the crucial midterm elections in 2026.
“Governor Newsom believes that his entire political career supports independent district changes, and we are currently addressing challenges posed by Trump and Texas in upcoming elections,” said Newsom’s spokesperson Bob Salade.
On Thursday, Newsom announced he might ask state legislators to develop new maps for the next three election cycles before reverting to nonpartisan committees.
