Photo: FREDERIC J. BROWN / AFP / Getty Images
California voters have approved Proposition 50, a ballot measure aimed at redrawing the state's congressional district maps. The measure, backed by Governor Gavin Newsom, replaces the maps drawn by the independent California Citizens Redistricting Commission with new, legislatively drawn maps.
Proposition 50 is seen as a response to redistricting efforts in Republican-led states, such as Texas, where new maps have been drawn to favor the GOP. The new California maps could potentially give Democrats up to five additional seats in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The measure has sparked controversy, with critics arguing that it undermines the independent commission established in 2010 to ensure fair representation. However, supporters, including former President Barack Obama and other prominent Democrats, argue that the change is necessary to counteract gerrymandering in other states.
The new maps will be used starting in 2026 and remain in effect until the California Citizens Redistricting Commission draws new maps following the 2030 U.S. Census. The measure's approval will result in one-time costs for updating election materials, estimated to be a few million dollars statewide.