King Gavin’s Bold Move
So, King Gavin is at it again! That’s what many Republicans in California are saying as they call for the legislature to back a special election this November, one that’s unlike anything seen before. This election could let voters approve a Congressional map created by Democrats, a move aimed at eliminating seats held by the GOP and challenging the influence of Texas Governor Greg Abbott’s Trump-supporting base.
Last week, during a rally filled with big-name Democrats at Little Tokyo’s Japan National Museum, the governor expressed his concerns. “It’s not like there’s a different set of rules—he just doesn’t respect the rules,” he stated. He suggested that the current approach isn’t sufficient, emphasizing the need for action beyond just protecting fragile democratic ideals.
The reaction from California Republicans has been, well, quite colorful. It’s reminiscent of how kids react when you take away their favorite toy—they’re just not happy. “This is an absolutely ridiculous gerrymander!” exclaimed Rep. Doug Lamalfa, who represents the state’s northeastern rural regions, especially on social media. According to the latest map, his district stretches down to extremely liberal Marin County.
For the California GOP, this new map represents what they’re calling a “Masterclass of Corruption.” A spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee called the situation “a middle finger to every Californian.” It’s a pretty strong statement, indicating how serious they view this issue.
Opinions vary on whether extreme political actions should be countered with equally extreme responses. The proposed map will replace one designed just four years ago by an independent committee intended to minimize political bias. Typically, these redistricting processes follow a census every decade.
Even advocates of good governance, like Charles Munger Jr.—the billionaire behind a proposal that created an independent redistricting process—criticized Newsom’s approach. Former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, who often opposes Trump, even shared a gym photo on social media with a t-shirt declaring, “Politician/End Gerrymandering.”
Now, I’m not quite convinced that Newsom’s plan will effectively neutralize the Trump influence as he might hope. If the economy picks up in the next year, Republicans could still maintain power in Congress regardless, leaving Newsom with a political mess in California.
It’s interesting how California sometimes swings in surprising directions, tempering the atmosphere that often appears very liberal. Just consider the recent tightening of penalties for theft and drug-related crimes which failed in previous voting measures, and last year’s Proposition 36. A recent Politico-Citrin Center-Possibility Lab survey shows that nearly two-thirds of Californians prefer “staying out” of Congressional matters.
If voters reject Newsom’s proposal, it could seriously hinder his presidential ambitions and leave state Democratic leaders with a lot to contend with, possibly for generations.
But honestly, I must admit I’m enjoying the drama unfolding. Are California Republicans genuinely worried about protecting American democracy now that they might end up with even fewer Congressional seats than the nine they currently hold?
Where were they when California faced challenges from lawsuits or Trump’s threats? When the National Guard was deployed in Los Angeles over immigration protests? Do they really care about political integrity now? What about when local GOP members opposed Biden’s 2020 victory? They backed a costly recall and supported a bloated spending bill that was expected to negatively impact healthcare and food programs in poorer communities. So is this sudden concern about integrity sincere, or is it just about preserving power?
It’s baffling how they label Newsom as a significant threat just for trying to change the Congressional map. It makes you wonder about their own values.
If California Republicans truly cared about decency, they might have backed legislation proposed by their own that seeks to halt any changes in council districts during this contentious period. This bill, which I believe would help, has so far not garnered any co-sponsors. And I wonder, can’t they acknowledge their own role in creating this mess?
We’re navigating a difficult period for democracy. Just take a look at how masked border patrol agents showed up at the Japanese American Museum—a site with deep historical roots tied to the internment of Japanese citizens during WWII. The presence of the Chief, smiling with his team, while claiming they were there for public safety, felt ominous.
This show of force clearly seemed authoritarian. A Freedom of Information Act request has now been made to uncover the motivations behind such moves. Meanwhile, Trump’s influence looms large, described as mimicking authoritarian practices seen in Russia and North Korea.
Love him or hate him, Newsom is pushing boundaries with changes to California’s zoning laws, and whether it’s right or wrong, things are shifting.
But what’s truly alarming? The California GOP leaders, who supported him publicly, appear indifferent to the national implications of their actions. History has painted a much grimmer picture of their loyalty to Trump compared to any missteps Newsom may be making.
