Tehachapi Democrats plan for the future

Tehachapi Mountain Democratic Club, during its January meeting, looked at results of the 2020 election to understand how they might improve chances of winning Assembly and Congressional seats in the next election. Paul Mitchell, founder of Redistricting Partners, presented his analysis of the vote. He explained that the 2020 election was unique because of high voter turnout.

At 80 percent, it was the highest number of total voters in California history. The high number was because anxiety promotes voting, and the pandemic and the vote-by-mail process got people to the polls. Mitchell said this rate may not continue in the next election and low turnout is unfavorable for Democrats.

Another factor in elections is redistricting, which is scheduled to take place after the census is completed. Sophia Gomez, an associate of Redistricting Partners, explained some of the possible outcomes. She said California growth is below the national average, and since districts are drawn based on population, the state may lose a congressional district.

Candidates for Assembly District delegates were also present at the meeting. Sandy Reding, Neil Sannappa, Nicholas White and Megan Russell each introduced themselves and described their work within the Democratic party. The club noted that Nicholas White, who now lives in Bakersfield, grew up in Tehachapi and is an enthusiastic worker within the party.

Salvador Solorio Ruiz was unable to attend the meeting, but he sent a video thanking the club for endorsing him in his successful election to Delano City Council. He is the youngest member of the council and is bringing new ideas to that body.

Information is available on tehachapidemocrats. com.