Summary
California voters approved Proposition 50, a measure to redraw the state's congressional districts to favor Democrats, reversing a previous independent redistricting process. Governor Gavin Newsom led the campaign to pass the measure, aiming to counteract redistricting efforts in Republican-led states. This decision is part of a broader national struggle over how congressional districts are mapped ahead of upcoming midterm elections.
Key Facts
- Proposition 50 changes California's congressional district lines to benefit Democrats.
- An independent commission originally drew these lines, but Proposition 50 replaces that map.
- The Associated Press announced the measure's approval right after polls closed.
- Governor Gavin Newsom promoted Proposition 50 to counter redistricting done in other Republican-controlled states.
- Democrats could gain up to five new seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
- The campaign supporting the measure garnered nearly $120 million in funding.
- Charles Munger Jr. led the opposition to Proposition 50 and contributed $33 million to the campaign against it.
- California has a significant Democratic voter registration advantage, which contributed to Proposition 50's passing.
