California voters have approved Proposition 50, a redistricting measure that could impact the balance of power in the U.S. House of Representatives.
The measure allows the state to redraw congressional maps, potentially giving Democrats up to five additional seats. This comes as a response to gerrymandering efforts in Republican-led states like Texas, Missouri, and North Carolina. Governor Gavin Newsom and other Democrats framed the measure as a defense against President Donald Trump’s influence on U.S. democracy.
President Trump, however, has alleged voter fraud in the special election, claiming the process is rigged. He took to his Truth Social platform, calling the vote a “GIANT SCAM” and stating that mail-in ballots are under serious legal review. The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, echoed these claims without providing evidence, asserting that there is fraud in California’s elections. The Trump administration has threatened legal action and is reportedly working on an executive order to ban mail-in voting in California, a move experts say is legally challenging.
Despite the controversy, the approval of Proposition 50 is a significant win for Democrats, who currently hold 43 of California’s 52 House seats. The new maps are expected to help Democrats flip several Republican-held seats. The measure was supported by a well-funded campaign, raising nearly $170 million, significantly more than the opposition. The new maps will be in effect for the 2026, 2028, and 2030 election cycles.
Republicans have filed multiple legal challenges against Proposition 50, but none have succeeded so far. The California Supreme Court and federal courts have dismissed these challenges, allowing the redistricting to proceed. The outcome of this measure could shape the final years of Trump’s presidency, influencing whether he faces resistance or support in Congress.
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