Fair Maps Texas Action (11-12-18)

*Independent Redistricting Commission

 

Help us send a clear message to Austin: Texans support fair redistricting policies, and we’re willing to fight for them!

 

Texas is a repeat offender when it comes to gerrymandering and voter disenfranchisement. Both Democrats and Republicans have been guilty over the years of manipulating your right to vote. We need a system that works for the people. That's why Fair Maps Texas supports legislation that would reform the redistricting process so that it is conducted in an open manner with real opportunities for public dialogue and feedback, not behind closed doors. We believe that the responsibility for redistricting should be vested in an independent special commission, with membership that reflects the diversity of the unit of government, including citizens at large, representatives of public interest groups, and members of minority groups. The commission should:

 

• promote political fairness,

• use clear criteria for establishing districts,

• create a specific timeline for the steps leading to adoption of the redistricting plan,

• and, most importantly, use an open and public process when drawing the maps.

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Today marks the first day bills can be filed for the upcoming 86th legislative session. We ask that you contact your newly elected *state* representatives and senators and ask them to support legislation that would create a non-partisan Citizens Independent Redistricting Commission. If you can, be sure to direct the message to the Chief of Staff, as they are the ones that are most likely to determine policy formation.

 

 

Suggested script:

 

Hi, my name is ____, and I'm calling to ask Rep/Sen ___ to support redistricting reform. All Texans deserve the right to equal representation and the guaranteed freedom to choose their own elected officials. I am asking that Rep/Sen ___ join me in supporting legislation that would create a nonpartisan independent redistricting commission that would depoliticize the process of drawing district maps and ensure all voters are represented fairly.

 

If the elected official supports reform:

Great! We would very much appreciate it if Rep/Sen ____ would consider becoming a co-sponsor of this legislation.

 

If they oppose:

 

Like you, I value the integrity of my vote. We want to make sure that process of drawing district maps remains fair to everyone. It is our responsibility to make common-sense updates so that Texans can have their voices heard on Election Day.

 

Please be sure to report their responses back to us below.

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