September 23, 2021
Michigan Redistricting Committee Lashes Out at Media for Exposing Their Blunders and Lies
Lansing, Mich., September 23, 2021 – Michigan’s “Independent” redistricting commission is now voicing their displeasure with members of the press reporting on the committee’s lack of progress and constant errors. The committee has made several mistakes while demonstrating a complete disregard for the integrity of its mission. Recent press coverage of the commission has included two members of the committee who lied about their political affiliations, missed deadlines prescribed by the State Constitution, and engaged in a general lack of transparency. Even with the mishaps mounting, the committee’s staff is spending their time attacking the press for their coverage.
The committee meets during standard business hours on weekdays, making it difficult for people to watch, assess, and comment on their progress. Since its inception, the commission has met in excess of 343 hours, underscoring the important role that the press plays in the transparency of the process. By attacking reporters, the commission is undercutting the entire premise of why it was created: To provide a more transparent process where the public is informed and can offer more input into how their districts are drawn.
The “Independent” commission’s frustration with the press is a case of misplaced priorities. At a time when the committee is falling further behind on their deadlines, they are deviating their focus from the maps to try and defend their indefensible actions. Republicans and Democrats alike now have little patience for the embattled commission.
“This commission is struggling to get out of it’s own way, and Michigan residents are paying the price,” said Eric Ventimiglia, Executive Director for Michigan Rising Action. Ventimiglia continued, “Our state demanded a more transparent process in 2018, and three years later there’s no indication that will happen. It is disconcerting to see this committee focus more on politics and lashing out at the media than actually drawing fair maps.”