Dupage Policy Journal

Rep. Tim Butler (R-Springfield) discussed achieving transparency and full representation with IL Muslim Civic Coalitions Executive Director Reema Syeda Kamren and other witnesses at the House Redistricting Committee hearing on April 8.

Apart from Kamren's suggestion to utilize the decennial census data and American Community Survey (ACS) data, Butler solicited suggestions on how organizations can say there is transparency in the redistricting process.

“So, my question is, how does the coalition envision community leaders having a role in the mapmaking process?” he asked. “Is it the desire of the coalition to be in the room when it’s drawn? I guess that’s my point. I appreciate the fact that you all are testifying, but my concern is that all of the things we say in these hearings won’t make a difference when the people come together to draw those maps. Would you want to be physically present when we’re drawing the maps?"

The witnesses are pushing for more representation from community leaders such as faith leaders and underrepresented communities. Butler agrees to have more involvement from the public, acknowledging that “While having Zoom has been easier for having these hearings,” he still thinks “that we have wide spots of the state that aren’t like West DuPage and aren’t being a part of these hearings.”  

When redrawing the voter maps, Republicans want to use the census data that has been delayed until September, while Democrats want to use the ACS data —less comprehensive than the official U.S. Census Bureau data.

An independent redistricting commission is also being proposed by the GOP to ensure that Illinoisans are empowered to draw the map.