The California Citizens Redistricting Commission, responsible for redrawing California's district lines, has released its first set of draft maps. The proposed districts largely follow the request of Asian-American advocates to group cities such as Alhambra and Monterey Park, all with at least 18 percent of its populations comprised of Asians.

Organizations such as the Asian Pacific American Legal Center have posited that the West San Gabriel Valley's "communities of interest," or cities that share similar social and economic needs, include Alhambra, San Gabriel, Monterey Park, Arcadia, Temple City, Rosemead, and San Marino.

Compared with the current Congressional district, the proposed district extends to the East San Gabriel Valley to include Walnut and Diamond Bar, both of which have Asian majorities. The proposed State Senate district would cut ties between the West San Gabriel Valley and areas to its west, including Echo Park and Downtown Los Angeles.

The complete draft maps for California can be found at the commission's website. Finalized maps are expected by August 15.