Republican lawmaker challenges governor’s use of public resources for partisan redistricting push.
Assemblywoman Kate Sanchez (R-CA) has filed a formal complaint with the California Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC), accusing Governor Gavin Newsom of funneling taxpayer money into his campaign for a controversial redistricting measure. The proposal—dubbed the “Election Rigging Response Act”—would dismantle California’s independent redistricting commission and give Democrats the power to redraw congressional maps to their advantage.
“This isn’t leadership, it’s a power trip on the public’s dime. Enough is enough,” Sanchez declared in her post on X.
Political reporter Ashley Zavala reported that the Los Angeles rally promoting the measure was organized with state resources and broadcast using taxpayer-funded equipment. Critics say this is a blatant violation of California campaign finance law and a prime example of Democrats using public funds for political gain.
The measure is set for a special election on November 4, a date opponents argue was deliberately chosen to favor Democratic turnout. If passed, it would lock in new Democrat-drawn maps through 2030, potentially shifting multiple congressional seats away from Republicans.
The campaign launch itself drew controversy when a Border Patrol operation outside the rally led to multiple arrests. While Newsom and Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass claimed it was a provocation, Republican leaders point out that the real provocation is the governor’s attempt to tilt elections in his party’s favor while forcing taxpayers to pay for it.
The National Republican Congressional Committee has condemned the initiative as a shameless partisan power grab, warning that if Democrats succeed in overturning independent redistricting rules, it could set a dangerous precedent for future elections nationwide. Many in the GOP see Sanchez’s complaint as a critical move in holding the governor accountable for what they describe as a “corruption of the electoral process.”
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