Former Republican California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger took a shot at the Michigan Republican Party after it posted false information about California's independent redistricting commission.
On Monday, the Michigan GOP posted on Twitter a picture of a map allegedly showing the districts that an independent redistricting commission drew. The map shows large districts carved out for Los Angeles and San Bernardino, and what appear to be lots of the Rorschach-like districts that are a sign of gerrymandering.
But Schwarzenegger points out that Michigan Republicans are using an old map.
Here's the Michigan GOP's tweet:
Very interesting, @Schwarzenegger, @ChadLivengood, @NotPoliticians. This is what the so-called 'Independent Commission' came up with in the Los Angeles area congressional districts. #Justsaying pic.twitter.com/r6EUMZgVo0
— Michigan GOP (@MIGOP) July 2, 2018
And here's Schwarzenegger's response. The correct map is a little less crazy, and he also takes the opportunity to point out why redistricting reform has been a success in California.
In case you guys need help, this is the map you meant to use. I found this on my machine in about 30 seconds. Try harder next time, and don’t mislead people. pic.twitter.com/vfWYWbThMI
— Arnold (@Schwarzenegger) July 2, 2018
The exchange comes just after Michigan approved a proposal for the November ballot that will ask voters to consider an independent redistricting commission. The goal is to strip politicians of their power in drawing Legislative and Congressional lines, and give that power to voters.
The 13-member commission would be made up of four Democrats, four Republicans, and five independent members who are not affiliated with any major political party.
Michigan legislators currently draw the lines, but that has led to gerrymandered districts in which the balance of power isn't reflective of the vote. In recent elections cycles, Michigan House Democrats have received more or about the same number of votes as House Republicans, but Republicans hold a 63-47 majority. Similar scenarios played out in the State Senate and Congressional districts.
California is one of several states that established an independent redistricting commission, and it has largely been viewed as a success by members of both political parties.
Some Michigan Republicans have supported the measure, but many oppose it — even though they may ultimately benefit from it.
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