GOP-Controlled Ohio Commission Assumes Redistricting After Deadline Miss

California is facing renewed controversy over its redistricting process ahead of a November 4 special election that could temporarily return map-drawing power to lawmakers, reversing the independent commission established by voters in 2008 and 2010 to reduce partisan influence. The proposed Proposition 50 aims to adopt a congressional district map favoring Democrats in five California House seats, a move supported by Governor Gavin Newsom and Democratic groups as a defensive measure against federal Republican efforts, but criticized by Republicans and some independent commissioners as a loss of transparency and a form of gerrymandering. California's redistricting history has been marked by partisan battles, including court interventions and politically motivated maps, leading to the creation of the Citizens Redistricting Commission to ensure fairer and more competitive districts. Meanwhile, Ohio is experiencing its own redistricting turmoil, with Republican lawmakers missing deadlines and the GOP-controlled commission set to take over map drawing, aiming to increase Republican-leaning districts despite public criticism over lack of transparency and fairness to urban voters. Both states illustrate ongoing national tensions around redistricting, reflecting broader partisan conflicts impacting electoral competitiveness and representation.