Disagreeing over just what is ‘the real threat to democracy’

Re “Fair to whom?” essays (Sept. 29): I don’t know anyone supporting Proposition 50 who is in favor of mid-decade, partisan redistricting. But it is already happening at the behest of Donald Trump for his own openly expressed purpose: ensuring that he keeps control of Congress.

Restoring California’s independent districting process following the 2030 census, Prop. 50 also calls on Congress to introduce a constitutional amendment that will establish independent districting commissions in every state. I hope those criticizing Prop. 50 will support these efforts.

Does our future lie in the unfolding of democracy and personal freedom? Will we allow  authoritarianism to overtake us? Now is the time for “we the people” to unite and resist. Prop. 50 applies the temporary use of legislative redistricting in an attempt to help stop the increasing blows of repression being imposed across America. Sooner or later, this unchecked cruelty will be felt by us all.

— Pamela Hoye, San Diego

Just received my ballot for Prop. 50. Disregarding all the faux posturing by Gov. Gav about “saving democracy,” the only clear winner of this proposition is the incumbent Democratic supermajority that California now suffers under. Since the state is so underwater, with billions in debt, it’s only fair that the Democratic Party should be paying the $282 million cost of this special election.

Obviously, this will never happen. But what is the real threat to democracy here?

— Bill O’Connor, Sunset Cliffs