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GOP Threatens Lawsuit, Ballot Fight Over New Calif. Redistricting Maps

LOS ANGELES (CBS) — The political balance of power in Sacramento may be on the verge of tilting even more to the left after new redistricting maps released Friday appear to extend the influence of Democratic lawmakers.

The California Citizens Redistricting Commission voted on final draft versions of the district maps for Congress, the state legislature and the state Board of Equalization.

KNX 1070's Jon Baird reports some politicos believe the new maps could give the Democrats a two-thirds majority at the State Capitol.

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While there remains a difference of opinion on how many seats are up for grabs, the chairman of California's Republican party said they could file a lawsuit or launch a referendum to fight some or all of the maps.

At least least three commissioners each from Democrats, Republicans and independents had to support the new boundaries. Final certification is due by Aug. 15, allowing time for technical fixes.

In the interim, the Commission is bracing for even more legal action, hiring two high-powered law firms to defend the maps.

(©2011 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)

 

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