Latest news with #ballotmeasure
New York Times
a day ago
- Politics
- New York Times
Newsom's Gerrymander of California Has a Formidable Foe: Schwarzenegger
A day after Gov. Gavin Newsom held a splashy campaign rally to debut his ballot measure to redraw California's congressional map, Arnold Schwarzenegger walked into a Santa Monica hotel for breakfast on Friday. He was wearing a new custom-made T-shirt. It was emblazoned with an image of a raised fist, an expletive aimed at politicians and the phrase, 'Terminate Gerrymandering.' As governor of California from 2003 to 2011, Mr. Schwarzenegger led the charge to do just that. He fought to overhaul how the state draws political maps, ultimately winning when voters passed a pair of ballot measures that took that power away from politicians and gave it to an independent commission. Now, Mr. Newsom is asking voters to set the independent commission's work aside for the next three elections in favor of a map drawn to help elect more Democrats. He's pitching it as a temporary pause on California's bipartisan system that's necessary to counter a Republican gerrymander President Trump is seeking in Texas. And Mr. Schwarzenegger, a moderate Republican, finds himself fighting to preserve a key plank of his legacy as governor, a reform that has allowed what he calls his post-partisan style of politics to endure in California even as a brawling hyperpartisanship has become the national norm. 'I hate the idea of the Republicans redrawing the district lines in Texas, as much as I hate what the Californians are trying to do,' Mr. Schwarzenegger said in an interview at the Fairmont Miramar Hotel and Bungalows. 'But I'm thinking now about California, and about the people of California. I promised them that we are going to create a commission that would be independent of the politicians, and there will be an independent citizens commission drawing the lines. So I'm not going to go back on my promise. I'm going to fight for my promise.' Exactly how Mr. Schwarzenegger plans to wage this battle is still taking shape. It started with him asking an aide to design the T-shirt, which he wore to the gym Friday morning and then donned as he rode his electric bike to breakfast. As Mr. Schwarzenegger sat down in a private dining room filled with potted plants, a waiter brought him a dish of walnuts and raisins, and poured him a glass of watermelon juice. Mr. Schwarzenegger is adamant that he won't align himself with the Republican Party as he campaigns against Mr. Newsom's ballot measure. He's no fan of Mr. Trump or the way the G.O.P. has evolved under the president's leadership. And he says he has a good relationship with Mr. Newsom, whom he said he has hosted at his home for meetings. But Mr. Schwarzenegger said he planned to defend the system he helped create, even if it means an outcome that could help Mr. Trump and hurt Mr. Newsom. 'It's nothing personal,' said Mr. Schwarzenegger, who had moved on from walnuts and raisins to a plate loaded with a ham-and-vegetable omelet, a green salad and sourdough toast. Mr. Newsom, Mr. Schwarzenegger added, is doing what he has to do to help the Democratic Party. 'He was kind enough to let me know what he's up to and how he feels,' Mr. Schwarzenegger said. 'I told him: 'I totally get it. I understand it.' I said, 'There's no effect on our relationship.'' Asked for comment, Mr. Newsom responded with a statement saying that he agrees on the need for independent redistricting across the nation but that 'this moment of crisis' demands California temporarily shift gears. 'Trump and his Texas cronies are trying to rig the 2026 election before a single person has voted,' read the statement from Mr. Newsom's campaign adviser, Courtni Pugh. 'This is a five alarm fire for our democracy. By voting yes in November, Californians have a chance' to put 'a real check on his power.' Mr. Schwarzenegger's passion for the arcane issue of redistricting stems from his early experience as governor. When he first came into office after a career in acting and bodybuilding, Mr. Schwarzenegger said he wasn't aware that drawing district boundaries was a standard part of what lawmakers do. But he quickly began to see how the makeup of a district shapes the decisions legislators make, and felt it hampered his ability to advance meaningful policies for California. Mr. Schwarzenegger recalled talking to Democratic lawmakers about changing public education to empower parents at low-performing schools, and talking to Republican lawmakers about the need for more clean energy to curb climate change. In both cases, he said, the lawmakers said they agreed with his ideas but wouldn't vote for them because it would anger the voters in their districts. He went back to his staff and said: 'I don't get that. They are for something, but they don't vote for it?' Mr. Schwarzenegger said his aides explained that the districts were drawn to include overwhelming shares of liberal or conservative voters, so that lawmakers would be assured re-election. 'I have seen it first-hand, how it's the evil of politics,' Mr. Schwarzenegger said of gerrymandering. 'It's very clearly an attack on the people's choice. It is gaining more power for the politicians.' He championed a ballot measure in 2005 that sought to put redistricting in the hands of a panel of judges, arguing at the time that the lack of competition between the parties for California's legislative and congressional seats showed the need for a shake-up. The Democratic Party campaigned against the measure, and voters rejected it. Three years later, he backed another measure that established California's independent redistricting commission. And in 2010, he supported a measure that expanded the commission's power to include drawing congressional districts. Since those measures passed, some regions in California have become fiercely competitive, and it's no longer uncommon for House seats to flip back and forth between the parties. After leaving office, Mr. Schwarzenegger campaigned in other states, including Michigan and Ohio, in an effort to export California's model. He held news conferences at the Supreme Court when it considered cases about gerrymandering. But he has largely been a background figure in California politics, mostly working on fitness and acting, weighing in selectively on social media and even, once, fixing potholes in high-profile fashion after a series of winter storms. He described opposing gerrymandering as a wonderful fight. He said he didn't buy the argument that California should do it because other states are. 'We are not going to go into a stinking contest with a skunk,' he said. 'We are moving forward.'
Associated Press
2 days ago
- Business
- Associated Press
Panorama Insurance Associates Endorses California Insurance Market Reform Act, Calls on Industry to Unite Behind Critical Ballot Initiative
Roseville, CA August 14, 2025 --( )-- 55-Year Insurance Leader Urges Colleagues to Help Gather Signatures for 2026 Reform Measure Panorama Insurance Associates, a California-based insurance brokerage with over five decades of experience and through its' network currently represents several hundreds of independent insurance agencies statewide, today announced its strong support for the California Insurance Market Reform Act, which is scheduled for the November 2026 ballot. The company is calling on fellow insurance agencies, agents, and industry professionals to join the signature-gathering effort to qualify this critical reform measure. As one of the state's largest networks with a large focus on the small to mid-sized independent agencies, Panorama has a unique view into the challenges facing the marketplace. Over the past several years, the company has seen an increasing number of independent agents step away from the business—not because they wanted to—but because of the increasing work load required to find viable or any coverage options for their clients. 'Our affiliate agencies are deeply connected to their communities, and we have witnessed the strain they face when carriers exit the market,' said Elizabeth Hammack, Agency Principal at Panorama Insurance Associates. 'As a larger network representing smaller agencies, we have witnessed firsthand how the current regulatory framework is driving insurers out of the state and leaving consumers with fewer choices and higher costs. It is essential to explore and support solutions that will help them continue serving their clients and sustaining their businesses. The Crisis is Measurable and Accelerating The data supporting the need for reform is stark: Seven of California's twelve largest insurers have limited new policies since 2022. (Source: California Department of Insurance, industry filings) State Farm, the state's largest insurer, stopped writing new policies in May 2023. (Source: State Farm company announcement, May 2023) California FAIR Plan premiums increased 199%, from $424 million in 2021 to $1.267 billion in 2024. (Source: California FAIR Plan Association annual reports) Over 555,000 Californians now rely on the FAIR Plan as their insurer of last resort. (Source: California FAIR Plan Association enrollment data, 2024) These market challenges affect not only home and auto insurance, but also commercial business coverage. (Source: California Department of Insurance, market analysis reports) 'These aren't just statistics—they represent real families and businesses struggling to find affordable coverage,' Elizabeth noted. 'Our Affiliate Network serves communities across California, and we see the impact every day.' A Professional Solution For Professional Oversight The California Insurance Market Reform Act proposes replacing the current elected Insurance Commissioner with a Governor-appointed, Senate-confirmed professional with at least ten years of relevant experience. The measure would modernize rate regulation by allowing forward-looking catastrophe models, including reinsurance costs in rate calculations, and establishing standardized wildfire risk mapping. 'Insurance regulation is too important and too complex to be subject to political campaigns and special interest influence,' Elizabeth explained. 'We need professional, technical expertise—not political theater.' The Act maintains strong consumer protections while eliminating the intervenor compensation system, which has been dominated by a single organization that has collected over $18 million since 2003. (Source: California Department of Insurance, Intervenor Compensation Program records) Call To Action for Industry Unity 'Our focus is on supporting the independent agent community so they can remain successful and continue to serve their clients,' Hammack said. 'We will provide our network with updates and further information as the process unfolds.' It is estimated that The Reform Act will needs approximately 600,000 valid signatures to qualify for the November 2026 ballot, so Panorama Insurance Associates is encouraging all California insurance agencies, agents, and industry professionals to actively support the signature-gathering effort. 'This isn't about helping insurers—it's about saving California's insurance market for consumers,' Elizabeth emphasized. 'We need every agent, every agency, and every industry professional to step up. Talk to your clients, your neighbors, your community leaders. Help us gather the signatures needed to give voters this choice.' About Panorama Insurance Associates Founded in 1960, Panorama Insurance Associates is a full-service insurance brokerage providing comprehensive coverage solutions for businesses and individuals nationwide. With headquarters in Roseville, California, the company operates an Independent Agency Affiliate Network of several hundreds agencies and maintains relationships with over 100 top insurance carriers. Panorama is licensed in all 50 states and has maintained a 99% affiliate retention rate while managing over $500 million in written premium annually. The company's affiliate network includes agencies managing premiums from $500,000 to $50+ million, serving communities throughout California and beyond. How To Get Involved Insurance professionals interested in supporting the California Insurance Market Reform Act can: 1. Volunteer to collect signatures in their communities 2. Educate clients and colleagues about the need for reform 3. Share information through professional networks and associations For more information about Panorama Insurance Associates, visit or For more information about the California Insurance Market Reform Act, visit HOME | Ca Insurance Market Reform. Media Contact: Paige Taylor, Panorama Insurance Associates Phone: 424.333.1751 Email: [email protected] This press release reflects Panorama Insurance Associates' position based on its experience serving California's insurance market for over five decades. The company encourages all stakeholders to review the full text of the California Insurance Market Reform Act and make informed decisions about supporting this important ballot measure. Contact Information: Panorama Insurance Associates Paige Taylor 424.333.1751 Contact via Email Read the full story here: Panorama Insurance Associates Endorses California Insurance Market Reform Act, Calls on Industry to Unite Behind Critical Ballot Initiative Press Release Distributed by
New York Times
2 days ago
- Politics
- New York Times
Newsom's Latest Statewide Campaign Is About Redistricting. And Donald Trump.
Californians may have thought they were done voting on Gavin Newsom. He's been elected twice as governor, defeated a recall seeking to oust him from office, and is barred by term limits from running again. But the state's voters will soon weigh in once more on Mr. Newsom's fate. This time, it will be in the form of a ballot measure the governor is pitching as a way to go after President Trump. Mr. Newsom on Thursday kicked off his campaign for a proposition asking California voters to approve a new congressional map, an extraordinary move meant to help Democrats win more seats in the U.S. House of Representatives to counter Mr. Trump's request that Texas gerrymander five more seats for Republicans. The governor gathered Democratic lawmakers and union leaders waving 'Defend Democracy' signs in a Los Angeles auditorium for a show of solidarity, marked by the hopeful buzz of a campaign rally. The event was held a day before California lawmakers aimed to make the map public. 'On Nov. 4 in California, you have the power to stand up to Trump,' Mr. Newsom told the crowd. 'You have the power to declare that you support a system that is not rigged.' The governor has dubbed his measure the Election Rigging Response Act. The phrase was emblazoned on red, white and blue signs throughout the auditorium. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Fox News
09-08-2025
- Politics
- Fox News
California launches redistricting fight to ‘nullify' Texas GOP plan, with Dems poised to gain 5 seats
As the controversy surrounding Texas's redistricting efforts still rages, California Gov. Gavin Newsom and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi announced Friday that the Golden State will move forward with a plan for a special election in early November to place its own redistricting plan on a ballot measure before voters. Newsom said the move was a counterpunch to Texas and was being done in a transparent fashion, but would also likely see Democrats pick up five seats if the measure is adopted. The plan would allow Democrats to temporarily bypass the state's independent redistricting commission and adopt a new congressional map ahead of the 2026 elections. "We are talking about emergency measures to respond to what's happening in Texas and we will nullify what happens in Texas," Newsom said at a Friday press conference flanked by several California lawmakers and some Texas Democrats who fled their state. "We'll pick up five seats with the consent of the people. And that's the difference between the approach we're taking and the approach they're taking," Newsom continued. "We're doing it on a temporary basis. We're doing it in a fully transparent way and we're doing it by asking the people of the state of California for their consent and support." California would be the first Democratic-led state to actively begin the process of passing new congressional district lines ahead of the 2026 midterms in response to Texas's redistricting push. Newsom said Democrats have until Aug. 22 to get the measure on the ballot and he railed against President Donald Trump and Texas Gov. Greg Abbott in justifying the move. "Greg Abbott, who doesn't have the courage, doesn't have the backbone, doesn't have a conscience of the consequences of his actions... is dialing now for new seats," Newsom said Friday, referring to the Texas governor's push for a mid-decade redistricting map and a call with President Trump. "[Trump's] agenda is failing. His presidency has failed. He knows the headwinds in a midterm. He's dialing for seats now." Texas Republicans, encouraged by the Trump administration, are pursuing a congressional map aimed at adding up to five GOP-leaning districts, prompting fierce backlash and counteraction. Texas Democrats have fled the Lone Star State to Democrat-stronghold states to break quorum and halt the vote. The Texas House requires a quorum of two-thirds of members present to conduct official business and state lawmakers have reported they plan to be absent from the state until the end of August, when the special session ends. Texas Democrats argue that their state's redistricting plan is unconstitutional and nakedly partisan. Pelosi defended the Texas walkout, calling it "self-defense for our democracy." She said Democrats will not let Trump "pave over" free and fair elections in the country. Texas Speaker of the House Dustin Burrows signed arrest warrants for the absent Democrats on Monday, following the state House approving of such warrants and Gov. Greg Abbott calling on the Texas Department of Public Safety to arrest the "delinquent Texas House Democrats." The arrest warrants are largely viewed as symbolic as they only apply to those within state lines. California State Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas, a Democrat, said maps would be available to view next week. "Once these maps are released, voters will have the opportunity to digest these maps, review them for weeks and months leading to this election," he said.
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
For the people, by the people: Missouri's Initiative Petition process and changes for August 2025
ST. JOSEPH. MO (News-Press NOW) — A sweeping new law set to take effect Thursday, Aug. 28, will reshape how Missourians bring issues directly to the ballot. Citizens use the Initiative Petition process to put new laws or constitutional amendments directly on the ballot by gathering signatures. It's been used in Missouri for over 100 years, allowing voters to bypass the legislature and place issues directly on the ballot. Recent examples of this include medicaid expansion, abortion access and medical marijuana legalization. Senate Bill 22, passed by Missouri lawmakers earlier this year and signed by Governor Mike Parson, introduces a series of changes to the state's Initiative Petition process, altering everything from who writes the official ballot language to when and how legal challenges can be filed. Supporters of the bill acknowledge the changes will provide greater consistency and fairness. However, critics warn it could undermine democracy by making it harder for grassroots organizations to bring issues before voters. Ballot summary responsibility One of the most significant shifts under Senate Bill 22 is who will write the summary language appearing on ballots, a key piece of information that can shape how voters perceive an issue. Previously, the Missouri Secretary of State was responsible for writing the short summary that appears on ballots to explain what a proposed measure does. State Representative Dean Van Schoiack (R-Savannah), who represents part of Buchanan County, said the change is about 'putting power back in the hands of the elected General Assembly, rather than relying solely on one state office to control how issues are worded for voters.' I think the changes made here allow for the Secretary of State to do his job correctly," VanSchoiack said. Under the new law, when the legislature itself refers an issue to the ballot, lawmakers will now write the summary language instead. The Secretary of State will continue to write summaries for citizen-led petitions. Disagreers of the bill, including David Jones, the vice president for the St. Joseph National Education Association (NEA), argue that it gives more power to officials and not the will of the people. "It's important that when we do any initiatives that are going to go to the vote for the voters, that's worded clearly," Jones said. Longer ballot summaries In the past, anyone who disagreed with the wording of a ballot summary had 10 days after certification to challenge it. Courts also had the authority to rewrite summaries if they found the wording biased. Now, legal challenges and court fights over how a ballot question is worded must be filed by the 22nd Tuesday before the general election. Around 154 days ahead of time. Any court battles over ballot wording must be fully resolved at least 70 days before the election. Additionally, courts must wait for the Secretary of State to attempt up to three rewrites before stepping in. "It doesn't change what's in the petition or the resolution or whatever," VanSchoiack said. "It just gives a chance for the ballot language to change." But critics, including several voter advocacy groups, express that these new hurdles will make it harder for ordinary citizens to hold the government accountable, especially if ballot summaries are drafted in a way that favors one side. "It would be harder for organizations to challenge ballot initiatives that are worded improperly, Jones said. Tune in to News-Press NOW at 5 p.m. on Thursday to watch this Special Report. Solve the daily Crossword
