CALIFORNIA – Governor Gavin Newsom and state lawmakers have called a November 4 special election to consider redrawing California’s congressional maps — a vote expected to cost taxpayers more than $200 million as the state faces a $20 billion budget shortfall.
Reform California has launched its campaign to oppose the measure, Proposition 50, under the banner “No on Prop 50 – Defend Fair Elections.”
Reform California argues that Proposition 50 would undermine citizen-led redistricting and shift control back to politicians by eliminating the state’s independent redistricting commission.
The measure would allow the Legislature to draw new congressional maps for the 2026, 2028, and 2030 elections.
Supporters say Prop 50 is needed to protect California’s voice in Congress. They argue it lets the state fight back against partisan gerrymandering in Republican-led states by temporarily giving lawmakers control of redistricting.
However, the group led by Assemblymember Carl DeMaio, argues that, just like “temporary” taxes, fees, and regulations, once politicians have power, they never give it back to the people.
“Letting Sacramento politicians “temporarily” kill off a piece of democracy sets a dangerous precedent that could be used by future politicians to undermine constitutional safeguards,” said the group.
Redistricting redraws boundaries of voting districts
Redistricting is the process of redrawing the boundaries of voting districts — such as congressional, state legislative, and local political districts, to ensure fair and equal representation.
Every 10 years, after the U.S. Census, states must adjust district lines to reflect population changes. This keeps each district roughly equal in population so everyone’s vote carries similar weight.
In most states, the legislature controls redistricting, which often opens the door to gerrymandering — when district lines are drawn to favor one party or protect incumbents.
In states such as California, Arizona, and Colorado, independent citizens’ commissions draw district maps to minimize political influence.
“Prop 50 is a dangerous move”
Newsom and state Democrats argue that Proposition 50 is a response to redistricting efforts in Texas and actions by President Donald Trump.
Reform California says California shouldn’t retaliate by compromising its integrity or the fairness of its elections.
Executive director of nonpartisan California Common Cause, Darius Kemp, agreed stating it is a dangerous move.
“We know independent redistricting works because California has been the national leader for years. We can’t afford to put our state’s democracy on the line during a time of national instability,” Kemp said.
The group later updated their stance stating California’s redistricting plan complies with all six of Common Cause’s fairness criteria for mid-decade redistricting, and as a result, it will not oppose the state’s efforts.
