Particle.news
Download on the App Store

California Voters Approve Prop. 50, Authorizing Legislature-Drawn Congressional Maps for 2026–2030

Newsom pitched the measure as a counter to GOP-led redistricting in other states.

Overview

  • The measure passed by about 63.8% to 36.2% in early returns, with strong support in coastal metros like Los Angeles and San Francisco and heavy opposition in rural northern counties such as Lassen and Modoc.
  • Prop 50 temporarily replaces the Citizens Redistricting Commission maps with lines enacted by the Democratic-controlled Legislature starting in 2026 and lasting until new post‑2030 census maps are drawn.
  • Analysts cited by NBC project up to five current GOP House districts could shift to Democrats under the new maps, specifically Districts 1, 3, 22, 41, and 48.
  • The change could move California’s congressional split from roughly 43D–9R to near 48D–4R, which may affect control of the U.S. House in the 2026 midterms.
  • Newsom celebrated the outcome after an estimated $100 million campaign that drew many out‑of‑state donations, while President Trump denounced the vote as a “giant scam.”