WXYZ DETROIT — It’s an important job that will impact everyone in Michigan for the next 10 years. This special group of Michiganders want your input! The Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission is gathering information so they can map Michigan’s future for fair elections. By November 1st, the Commission must complete its work of drawing Michigan’s new federal and state legislative districts.
You’ll recall that in 2018, Michigan voters overwhelmingly amended the state constitution by passing Proposal 2. Average citizens, not legislators or special interests groups, now have the power to draw the district lines for Congressional, State House and State Senate seats. The new commission consists of 13 randomly selected registered Michigan voters. Four are affiliated with the Democratic Party, four with the Republican Party, and 5 who have no affiliation with either major political party.
The commission has been meeting virtually throughout the pandemic. The meetings are fully transparent for anyone to see. Just go to this editorial on WXYZ.com and click on the links we have provided connecting you to their meetings on Facebook and You Tube. There’s also a link that will take you to the Secretary of State website with additional information about the commission, its timeline, and frequently asked questions.
And here’s the best news. The new governing body strongly encourages the public to watch its sessions. These 13 citizens welcome your ideas, concerns and questions. Now is the time to follow the work of the Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission and make your voice heard! Grassroots participation by everyday citizens is a good way to shape Michigan’s future and guard against political gerrymandering of voter districts.
I’m Mike Murri, V.P. & General Manager
Broadcast: February 18 - 21, 2021
