Housing and Development Newsletter
Racial equity and diversity are a focus of modern politics. Yet, too often, the second that prioritizing racial representation undermines a political agenda, it becomes irrelevant.
The Santa Barbara County Redistricting Commission is guilty of such behavior. As the commission deliberates the best way to fill the recent vacancy created by the resignation of James Hudley, commissioners such as Jannet Rios, who originally prioritized racial representation in commissioner selection, have suddenly flipped to prioritizing political affiliation over representation of the diverse racial makeup of Santa Barbara County.
The independent commission is considering forgoing willing and qualified applicants in District 3 like Lupe Alvarez, who would bring another Latino voice to the redistricting process, in pursuit of a member affiliated with the Democratic Party.