Local Expert Doesn't Expect Many Changes To Political Landscape

For decades, drawing California’s political boundaries had been the privilege of politicians who guarded partisan advantage with oddly shaped but supremely safe districts. Those days are over. In an experiment in direct democracy, ordinary citizens chosen by lottery have been tasked with making new districts for the State Legislature and Congress.  Last week, the California Citizens Redistricting Commission released draft maps for the State Senate, the State Assembly and the state’s Congressional delegation.

The experts are still analyzing what the maps might mean for incumbent politicians, but an early reading suggests Democrats may be happier with the proposal than the state’s already harried Republicans. We were curious what the redrawn lines might mean for Rep. George Miller (D-Martinez), who has represented the 7th District since 1975. We checked in with former City Councilman Tim Farley, an expert in the mechanics of politics.

Patch: What do you think about the process that's taking place?

TF: On the whole, I think the commission did a very good job. They were tasked with drawing political boundaries without regard to party registration, politics and where current incumbents live.

Patch: What, if any, effect do you think this will have on Rep. George Miller, in terms of his chances for re-election?

TF: Miller will have almost all of Contra Costa County, with exception of Richmond and far East county. Richmond has been big anchor for Miller over the years. But I don’t think the changes will imperil Miller’s reelection chances. The Lamorinda area has really changed over the past twenty years. As the Bay Area has gotten bluer, so has Contra Costa County. I think he will be a good fit for the district. He's environmentally conscious, a strong voice on women’s issues, on children and family issues. I think he'll continue to do well.

Patch: Do you think there will be any challenges for the statewide assembly or senate seats, given these proposed district changes?

TF: I don’t think there will be any new faces in Contra Costa County next year. There are some incumbents that have new areas they have to cover. That’s ok. I don’t see anything in these maps that look like there will be any major problems.