The Joint Hearing of the Select Committee on Native American Affairs and the Joint Legislative Audit Committee convened on August 19, 2025, to discuss significant legislative measures impacting California's governance and redistricting processes. The meeting featured a range of testimonies from supporters and opponents of proposed changes, particularly focusing on Assembly Constitutional Amendment 8 (ACA 8).

The session began with several witnesses expressing support for ACA 8. Genesis Gonzales, representing Lieutenant Governor Eleni Kounalakis, and Kristen Heidelbach from the UFCW Western States Council both voiced their backing. P. Hannah from the California Nurses Association also expressed strong support, highlighting the importance of the proposed changes.

However, the atmosphere shifted as the committee heard from numerous opponents of the measure. Sophia Carstens, representing Decentralized America and the LA County GOP, articulated strong opposition, as did Horacio Gonzalez from California's Business Roundtable. A significant number of residents from various counties, including Solano and Riverside, also voiced their dissent, emphasizing concerns over fairness, governance, and the potential dilution of voter power.

Senator Tony Strickland and Senator Suzette Valadares were among those who articulated their opposition, arguing that the proposed changes could undermine the established independent citizens' redistricting commission. They stressed the importance of maintaining the integrity of California's electoral processes and the need to uphold the decisions made based on the 2020 census data.

The committee members engaged in discussions regarding the implications of ACA 8, with Vice Chair Choi inviting questions from fellow senators present. The conversation underscored the historical significance of the decisions at hand, with members reflecting on the ethical considerations surrounding the proposed redistricting changes.

As the meeting concluded, the committee acknowledged the diverse perspectives shared and the importance of continued dialogue on these critical issues. The next steps in the legislative process remain to be determined as the committee prepares for further discussions and potential votes on the matter.