Redistricting backers want lawsuit group's finances reviewed

The coalition seeking to change how Illinois draws political boundaries wants election officials to review political contributions to a group suing to keep redistricting off November's ballot.

The Independent Map Amendment group sent a letter this week to the Illinois State Board of Elections questioning contributions to The People's Map, which filed a lawsuit alleging a redistricting ballot measure is unconstitutional. The case is pending before the Illinois Supreme Court.

The Associated Press first reported at least six union contributions of $2,000 each to The People's Map, which didn't disclose the money in state campaign filings.

A People's Map spokesman says the checks weren't cashed. The group is comprised of minority leaders who say overhauling redistricting diminishes minority representation. An attorney who's represented Democrats filed the lawsuit on their behalf.