CA Election: Everything you need to know about Prop 50

SAN FRANCISCO — On November 4, California voters will decide on Proposition 50, a measure that proposes changing the state’s congressional maps mid-decade. This statewide election carries significant national implications, as how California votes could influence which party controls Congress in 2026 and determine the nature of Californian representation in the nation’s capital.

**How Did We Get Here?**

Proposition 50 is part of a broader national battle over redistricting. Both Republicans and Democrats are seeking to gerrymander—or redraw—congressional districts to influence the outcome of next year’s midterm elections and ultimately decide which party will control the U.S. House of Representatives.

This political struggle gained momentum when former President Donald Trump urged Republican-led states, including Texas, to redraw their congressional maps in their favor. In response, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced a plan to strengthen Democratic influence, which led to a special election being called and Proposition 50 being placed on the ballot.

**What Will Proposition 50 Do?**

If passed, Proposition 50 would change California’s congressional districts for the 2026, 2028, and 2030 elections. This would temporarily override the state’s independent redistricting commission, which is currently responsible for drawing new maps after the 2030 census.

The new maps would alter the boundaries of several districts, particularly five currently held by Republicans. These new boundaries would include more registered Democratic voters, theoretically making it more difficult for Republicans to hold onto these seats and increasing the likelihood of Democrats gaining additional congressional seats.

This move counters Texas’ efforts, which are similarly targeted but aimed at five Democrats currently in office.

**What Are the Experts Saying?**

ABC7 News insider Phil Matier explained that the outcome of Proposition 50 is uncertain. He noted that Democrats alone may not be enough to secure a win.

“Even if every Democrat in the state voted for this, you’d still be short,” Matier said. “They’re going to need to bring in independents and some Republicans in order to get this over the line.”

**ABC News California Special Presentation on Proposition 50**

ABC News stations in California have been covering Proposition 50 extensively for months. To provide a comprehensive view, they have compiled some of their best and most in-depth reports into a 30-minute streaming special that explores all angles of the issue.

You can stream this special on demand wherever ABC News content is available in California.
https://abc7.com/post/prop-50-california-election-results-gerrymandering-gavin-newsom-donald-trump/18087539/