It has examined housing and police practices in New York, the plight of American Indians in South Dakota and the treatment of blacks in Virginia's courts. By law, no more than four of its eight members can repre sent any one political party. It currently comprises four Democrats, three independents and one Republican. The lone Republican, affirmative action opponent Abigail Thernstrom, this month replaced Carl Anderson, who left to become supreme knight of the Knights of Columbus. Anderson and member Russell Redenbaugh, an independent appointed by Senate Republicans, joined in a dissent of the Civil Rights Commission's report last year on percentage-based college admissions policies that both Bush brothers have pursued in Texas and Florida.
Berry stands by the report and dismisses their complaints.
The commission voted unanimously to investigate Florida, Berry notes. The chairwoman also recognizes the political hurdle that it will face when its inquiry is finished. The balance of power continually shifts, but commission work goes on.