Following her vote in support of California’s new redistricting proposal, State Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D., released the following statement:
“As a practicing physician and legislator, I have dedicated my life to the well-being of others, protecting health, safeguarding rights, and ensuring opportunity for every community. That is why we must take action now against the deeply troubling redistricting plan in Texas, driven by the Trump administration’s push to add five new Republican congressional districts. This plan not only threatens fair representation but also sets a dangerous precedent that could harm communities across state lines.
Californians have for far too long felt the consequences of decisions made far from our state, and we are now bearing the brunt of the Trump administration’s policies. Tariffs are driving up consumer prices, changes in healthcare policy are increasing costs and narrowing access, federal support for vital infrastructure is becoming
increasingly unreliable, and cuts to our educational systems are limiting opportunities for some of our most vulnerable communities.
Now, the same political forces behind these harmful decisions are moving to insulate themselves from accountability through aggressive redistricting in Texas. This attempt not only undermines democratic representation but also perpetuates policies that make life less affordable for working families.
California’s response is not one I take lightly; it arises from necessity. We must do what we can to preserve the integrity of our democratic process and protect the economic well-being of our residents.
This is about defending our right to fair representation, ensuring healthcare remains accessible, and maintaining our investments in education and infrastructure that strengthen and enrich our communities.
If the Trump administration and Texas leaders succeed in their plan, they will solidify their ability to govern without answering for the real-world consequences of their policies. The ultra-rich will continue to benefit, while struggling working-class families are left to fend for themselves. California will not and I will not stand by idly while our democracy is undermined.”
Senator Akilah Weber Pierson, M.D. represents California’s 39th Senate District, which includes portions of San Diego County, the cities of Coronado, El Cajon, La Mesa, and Lemon Grove, as well as portions of the City of San Diego.
