1. United States
2. Calif.
3. Letter

California's bold move to counter partisan gerrymandering deserves support. As Governor Newsom rightly noted, the integrity of our democracy is under grave threat from those seeking to manipulate district maps for political gain. This special election on new congressional maps is a necessary step to ensure fair representation and protect the will of voters across the state. While critics may decry it as a power grab, the fact remains that allowing one party to unilaterally redraw maps tilts the entire system. California is simply restoring balance in the face of egregious overreach from other states. True democracy demands that all voices are heard and all votes carry equal weight. Newsom's proposal upholds that sacred principle against those who would undermine it for short-term gain. A fair, transparent process that puts the decision in the hands of voters is the only path forward if we aim to preserve democracy. I urge you to back this crucial initiative.