Letter To Editor
Last November, the good people of Michigan overwhelmingly voted to end the perverse and scandalous practice of gerrymandering. We amended our state constitution to provide for an Independent Citizens' Redistricting Commission. From now on voters, not politicians, will shape Michigan's state legislative and U.S. congressional districts. The Secretary of State is now accepting applications.
Any voter may apply to serve on Michigan's first Independent Citizens' Redistricting Commission through RedistrictingMichigan.org. If you are selected, you may expect to serve for 2-3 years. It is a full-time, paid position. No special technical or educational background is required. The Commission has its own budget to hire staff and mapping experts and legal counsel.
Unlike the previous convenient but corrupt scheme with only a few political insiders and lobbyists meeting in private, now debate, negotiations, and compromises will all be public.
All of the Commission's proceedings will be open, in the clear light of day. What could be more in the spirit of a democratic representative republic? Ordinary citizens throughout the state will participate in at least fifteen public hearings as the maps are proposed, negotiated, and redrawn. Commissioners will use the 2020 census data and input from communities and a demanding set of criteria to draw the new district maps.
The redistricting reform amendment was supported by 61% of Michigan voters – including a majority in the Grand Rapids area. Learn more . . . visit www.votersnotpoliticians.com.
Do you see yourself being a part of this historic development in American political culture? Apply to place your name in the selection pool to be on the Independent Citizens' Redistricting Commission.
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