AAUW Supports Independent Redistricting Commission

By LYNN HEFFRON
Co-president
AAUW New Mexico
Santa Fe

On behalf of over 800 members and supporters of the American Association of University Women, New Mexico, (AAUW) we urge the state Legislature to support the Redistricting Act, House Bill 211/Senate Bill 199.

Since AAUW’s founding in 1881, our advocates have taken positions on the fundamental issues of the day — educational, social, economic and political — that impact women and girls. The betterment of New Mexico’s women and girls cannot be appropriately addressed until all eligible voters of our state know that their voices are heard and their votes matter. The only way to ensure that all citizens of the state are enfranchised is to ensure that the voting districts of New Mexico are fairly established.

By creating an independent redistricting commission to develop district maps that set political district boundaries, HB 211 would begin to eliminate bias. Let us remove redistricting steps from partisan politicians, thus mitigating the unfair advantage enjoyed by a majority party. This independent process would greatly reduce the possibility of a protracted, expensive litigation between the two major political parties, which is what occurred during the last two redistricting periods, costing New Mexico taxpayers more than $7 million.

Most importantly, the independent commission will create greater transparency and fairness in the redistricting process, giving voters the confidence that, yes, their votes matter and, yes, their voices will be heard.

Again, on behalf of the 800 members and supporters of AAUW NM, please support the Redistricting Act.

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