San Diego County voters will continue to send five representatives to Congress under the first draft of California’s new congressional districts based on the 2020 Census.
The 2020 California Citizens Redistricting Commission released on Wednesday the maps for Congress, state Senate, state Assembly and Board of Equalization districts ahead of a Nov. 15 deadline.
The first draft puts three congressional districts entirely within the county, and two others primarily in the county but including parts of Orange and Riverside counties.
What is now Rep. Sara Jacobs’ 53rd District shifts south, while Rep. Juan Vargas’ 51st District takes up more of East County and loses Imperial County. Rep. Darrell Issa’s 50th District takes less of East County but extends further into Riverside County.
There are fewer changes to what are now Rep. Mike Levin’s 49th District and Rep. Scott Peters’ 52nd district.
The incumbents did not immediately release statements about how the new maps might affect their campaigns for re-election in 2022.
California had 53 seats in Congress during the past decade, but lost one after the Census as other states grew faster. However, San Diego County’s population growth ensured it will retain five districts.
“We proudly present these draft maps to the people of California as a starting point for public discussion. These are not intended to be final maps and we strongly encourage Californians to continue weighing in until we get it right,” said Commission Chair Trena Turner.
The final maps must be completed and certified by Dec. 27 in advance of the 2022 election year.
Detailed draft maps can be examined online at the commission’s website.
