WASHINGTON, D.C. – The proposed census citizenship question could have drastically impacted the California political representation in Congress.
“This was a very big victory for California, and really for America,” said Congressman Ted Lieu.
Lieu said he was eager to find out the Supreme Court ruling.
“Basically,” said Lieu. “The Supreme Court said the Trump administration essentially lied.”
He alluded to the Justices needing more information to determine the true reason for the proposed citizenship question, putting the Commerce Department’s integrity in question.
“I feel good,” said Congressman Gil Cisneros. “I applaud the Supreme Court for the decision that they made.”
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Cisneros said the Trump administration should encourage people to fill out the census, but in this case, he said he felt it was doing the opposite, but said there are still ways to turn it around.
“Funding the program, funding the census bureau, running a marketing program to let people know that the census is coming,” Cisneros said. “And people need to complete, that would really make me feel comfortable.”
Congresswoman Judy Chu said along the same lines, the best way for the public to make a difference after this victory is to participate.
“Everybody regardless of status, make sure that they answer that census forum,” Chu said. “So that all us can make sure we get equality in the decade ahead in terms of funding and in terms of redistricting.”
According to Lieu, as of now, it’s nearly impossible for the Trump administration to give adequate evidence by the July 1 deadline.
“What we want to the do, is follow the constitution,” said Lieu. “Which says count people, not people who happen to citizens versus those who have green cards versus others so this is really a victory for the constitution as well.”
Lieu said it’s possible the Trump administration could try to push back the July 1 deadline. He says Congress should be ready for anything the president throws their way.