From Allen Pincus

Barneveld

To the Editor:

In response to overwhelming statewide support for nonpartisan redistricting, Governor Evers created the People’s Map Commission to draw new district maps, free of political bias. The members of the Commission, appointed by a panel of three retired judges, represent all areas of the state as well as population diversity. Excluded from the Commission are party officials, elected representatives and lobbyists. The Commission is directed to be transparent in its operation and solicit input from the public and nonpartisan experts (for technical map drafting expertise). The Commission’s map will be submitted to the Legislature for approval.

But the majority Legislative leadership will be submitting their own map and are likely to follow the same process they employed 10 years ago: their own attorneys drafting it in secret without public input, to produce maps that give advantage to Republican candidates.

Probable scenario? The Governor submits the Commission’s map to the Legislature; it’s turned down. The Legislature passes their map; the Governor vetoes it. The veto stands because the Legislature doesn’t have a veto-proof majority. Then it goes to the State courts to decide which map becomes law.

What can you do to end gerrymandering and get fair maps? Participate in the People’s Map Commission’s virtual public hearing for the 2nd Congressional District, March 11, either speaking or submitting your written comments (information on their website: govstatus.egov.com/peoplesmaps.) The more public input the stronger their court case. If you want your future votes to count, get involved now.