California Voters Decide on Partisan Redistricting Proposition 50 Nov 4

California’s special election on November 4 centers on Proposition 50, which proposes redrawing the state’s congressional districts to counteract a Republican-led gerrymander in Texas, potentially giving Democrats an advantage in up to five U.S. House seats. The proposition, backed by Governor Gavin Newsom, would replace the current maps drawn by the nonpartisan California Citizens Redistricting Commission with new partisan maps for three election cycles. Voting begins with mail ballots sent out October 6 and drop-off locations opening October 7, and early in-person voting starts October 25 in some counties. The measure faces criticism from opponents who call it a power grab undermining the independent commission, while supporters argue it is a necessary response to Texas's district redrawing. Legal challenges are anticipated, with some already petitioning the California Supreme Court to keep Prop 50 off the ballot. The redistricting could significantly reshape districts, such as Plumas County’s shift into a more urban district, affecting local political representation.