When my kids matured to become teenagers, they naturally rebelled against their parents. This predictable phenomenon featured their argument that their deviant behavior should be allowed.
To justify breaking basic house rules pertaining to curfew, ditching family functions, doing chores, and not turning in homework, we were told, “All my friends are allowed to do this.”
Such pretzel logic did not play then, nor does it apply now. Case in point is the argument for the passage of Proposition 50.
This ballot measure is to be determined by voters on November 4th. Under its terms, the current system of an independent, non-partisan Redistricting Commission is to be scrapped. This apparatus is to be replaced by the California Legislature, who promises to gerrymander Congressional districts in order to elect more Democrats to Congress.
As might be expected, progressive supporters of Proposition 50 are passionate in their views pertaining to redistricting. The same goes for the “no” faction.
To test the waters, I put this question up in the local Nextdoor blog. Not expecting a large response, it was surprising to find almost 350 people offered their thoughts.
Straw poll taken on Proposition 50 – Oct 3rd
- 48% Yes
- 43% No
- 9% Undecided or no opinion
While the results of this informal survey do not possess the accuracy of a Gallup Poll, they give interesting insight into where the race currently stands.
By a small margin, the “Yes on 50” bloc has a slight lead over the “No” contingent. There is also a group of undecided participants on Nextdoor who did not say where they stand on the measure. These factions were summarized by opinions listed below.
Yes on 50
“Firefighters fight fire with fire!” – Virgilio
I know what you are trying to say, but this thing is not a playground issue; we are talking about the very core of what this nation was founded on… Equal representation. One person, one vote. What the other party is doing is rigging the system. Prop 50 is an equalizing move.
Preserve the people’s power to choose who will represent them. In California—who cares about Texas? – Steven
How do you propose we fight the wrong which is happening on the right? – Martha
How the heck else are we supposed to have a fair election if Trump gerrymandered Texas? It is the only chance the country has before Trump becomes a dictator. – Sandie
No on 50
It is very concerning to see the same individuals voting yes, despite being aware that this could potentially disenfranchise a minority group in California. It is important to consider the impact of such actions, especially when disenfranchising groups.
While the situation in Texas is also troubling, going against your own principles undermines the positive efforts you are making. This issue transcends political affiliations and highlights the need for unity in upholding democratic values, rather than allowing polarization to dictate our actions. – Michael
Vote no on Prop 50! Don’t fall for the political scam to subvert democracy and silence the will of Americans. It is a partisan power grab that subverts the independent redistricting process voters created. – Steve
On neither side
I don’t think Dems are against fighting crime and cleaning up the nation. I am a Democrat and in huge favor of making our nation a safe place to live. I really wish everyone would stop saying the Dems think it’s OK for everyone to do what they want to. I believe politics has shifted so much that it is not easy to pick a party anymore. It’s about common sense. I actually agree and disagree with some things on both sides; so I don’t know what party to be anymore. – Teresa
I haven’t even decided if I will vote on this issue, as my views go beyond this. It’s about wanting to hop on the first train that turns the other cheek, even if it means I get slapped on the way out—because the alternative is just a back and forth. So, for my generation’s sake, if you are going to vote, do it with a smile. Even if we disagree on everything, I think if all are going to vote, it should be for a positive reason. – Steven
As Stephen Stills wrote in the Buffalo Springfield song For What It’s Worth:
“There’s battle lines being drawn.
Nobody’s right if everybody’s wrong.”
He went on to say:
“We better stop, children, what’s that sound?
Everybody look what’s going down.”
And so the conflict rages on for the victor in the Proposition 50 sweepstakes. Judging from the results and opinions expressed on Nextdoor, this is going to be a close race going down to the wire.
Unlike most elections for the past quarter-century in the Golden State, the normal Democratic coalition of public employee unions, environmentalists, progressives, and lobbyists will be severely challenged at the polls.
Added to this drama is the current low approval rating of Gavin Newsom. With fundraising virtually equal for both sides, the Governor’s leadership in California politics will be put to the test.
Do you agree or disagree with Richard? The Bay Area Telegraph encourages debate and welcomes your Opinion or Letter to the Editor. Email tom@bayareatelegraph.com.
Opinion and Letter to the Editor pieces reflect community opinions and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the BAT editorial team. A version of this story originally appeared in California Political News and Views.
