Proposition 50: What You Need to Know Before Nov. 4
Your vote is your power. On Election Day, Californians will decide on Proposition 50, a measure that could shape how our congressional districts are drawn for the rest of the decade.
Proposition 50: What You Need to Know Before Nov. 4
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September 29, 2025
What Supporters Say
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Protect Fair Representation: Supporters argue Prop 50 is needed to fight back against unfair, mid-decade gerrymandering in states like Texas that weaken California’s voice in Congress.
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Boost California’s Power in Washington: They believe new district lines could allow California voters to elect up to five more Democrats to the U.S. House, strengthening the state’s influence on national policy.
What Opponents Say
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Undermines Independent Redistricting: Opponents say Prop 50 would sideline the Citizens Redistricting Commission — a voter-approved model created to keep politicians from drawing their own districts.
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“Ends Justify the Means” Gerrymandering: Critics warn Prop 50 could erode trust in elections, setting off a cycle of partisan retaliation across the country.
What Your Vote Means
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Yes on Prop 50 → California would switch to new, legislature-drawn congressional maps for the 2026, 2028, and 2030 elections. The independent commission would return after the 2030 census.
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No on Prop 50 → California keeps the current congressional maps drawn by the independent Citizens Redistricting Commission through 2030.
Get Ready to Vote on November 4
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Make a plan: early, by mail, or in person
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Recent Election News
What you need to know to vote in California’s Nov. 4 special election on redistricting via Cal Matters
September 15, 2025 – All eyes are on California this fall as voters decide whether to approve Proposition 50, a partisan gerrymandering plan with significant stakes far beyond California’s borders — for control of the federal government, for President Donald Trump’s agenda and for Gov. Gavin Newsom’s national ambitions.
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