Having attended the Washington State Redistricting Commission hearings in 2021, I read your Yakima redistricting editorial with interest (“Yakima redistricting reflects national concerns,” In Our View, Jan. 9). My opinion is that rather than an isolated incident, the redistricting process itself is flawed.
True, the Census data was delivered late but two Republicans and two Democrats chosen by their parties to draw the maps were unable to produce a map before the constitutionally required deadline.
People identifying as independent have no representation in redistricting. Partisan commissioners held public Zoom meetings with their cameras and microphones turned off. Other meetings excluded the public. The governor and legislative leadership declined to call the Legislature back in session to convene a new redistricting commission. The state Supreme Court determined the commission had substantially met the requirements, allowing the map to stand, resulting in several lawsuits. Hence, not only will Legislative District 15 be changed but several other districts lines will move along with many voters.
This process fails voters. Other states have citizen-led, people-focused commissions. We can, too.
