The Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission made an offer for a new executive director on Wednesday after a 3-2 vote.
The offer was made to Brian Schmitt, who spent the last decade as the chief of staff to Republican Phoenix City Councilman Jim Waring.
Commission Chair Erika Neuberg says she is confident Schmitt will be fair and balanced.
“I feel that with the checks and balances, and with the information that we received, I am very comfortable with this choice,” said Neuberg.
The decision has drawn criticism from Democrats in the Arizona Legislature.
They point out that Schmitt failed to disclose $60,000 given to him by former Sen. Martha McSally’s campaign, and funds from the Republican National Committee.
Schmitt will not have a vote when it comes to redrawing congressional and legislative boundaries.