The California political scene is abuzz with debate over whether the state legislature should take over redistricting responsibilities mid-decade — a move by Gov. Gavin Newsom, aimed at countering Texas’s recent redistricting efforts. This practice is often labeled gerrymandering, but in this case it may be necessary to protect democratic balance for Californian citizens.
On Nov. 4 2025, California voters will decide on Proposition 50, a ballot measure that would temporarily suspend the California Citizens Redistricting Commission (CCRC) until 2030. During that time, the legislature would redraw district maps instead of the independent commission.
The CCRC is a nonpartisan committee made up of five Republicans, five Democrats and four unaffiliated with either party which expertly maintains democratic and fair districting. It is tasked with redrawing California’s district maps every 10 years, following the U.S. Census, to ensure equal representation in the House of Representatives.
If Prop 50 passes, this independent process would be paused, and redistricting would be handled by lawmakers — a direct response to partisan gerrymandering in Republican-controlled states like Texas.
Gerrymandering is the act of drawing electoral district lines to give an advantage to one party of the state’s legislature, which is being encouraged by both major political parties.
Las Positas political science professor Joanna Jen put it in an interview: “Legislators are choosing their voters, whereas … the voters are choosing their legislators.”
That reversal of democratic intent is at the heart of the argument against Prop 50. But considering the current political climate the legislature must take action immediately and swiftly.
All registered California voters will be able to vote “yes” or “no” on Prop 50 in the Nov. 4 election.
The measure titled “The Election Rigging Response Act” was introduced by Gov. Gavin Newsom. A direct response to redistricting in Texas, which was strongly encouraged by President Donald Trump.
In a public letter to Trump, Gov. Gavin Newsom wrote:
“If you will not stand down, I will be forced to lead an effort to redraw the maps in California to offset the rigging of maps in red states. But if the other states call off their redistricting efforts, we will happily do the same. And American democracy will be better for it.”
This letter was an ultimatum and a plea to return to democratic processes, which must be done for the sake of America.
Political groups across California have joined the debate about Prop 50, with some encouraging voters to support or oppose the measure. As of Sept. 25, LPC student government has also become involved.
Members of student government set up a table on campus, distributing pins, lanyards and informational fliers. These materials explained how to register to vote, what Prop 50 entails and encouraged students to participate in the upcoming election. While they promoted civic engagement, they remained nonpartisan — providing facts without urging students to vote one way or the other.
Neutrality may serve institutions like LPC and its student government. However, many political figures and organizations are not impartial.
Of those in support of Prop 50 is Sen. Adam Schiff, who stated:
“California will not stand idly by while Donald Trump tries to dictate the result of the next election in advance. If Texas moves forward with their new lines, California must respond.”
Schiff is joined by many other prominent Democratic figures — including former President Barack Obama and former Speaker of The House Nancy Pelosi — who argue that retaliating against partisan redistricting in red states is necessary to protect American democracy.
There are a number of prominent Republican figures who advocate against the implementation of Prop 50, but one is a surprising figure whose campaign against Prop 50 relies on star power: former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Who the Republican party is using in an attempt to sway public opinion against Prop 50 — which will only cause more harm for California.
“Two bad behaviors don’t make a right,” Schwarzenegger said.
He has a history with redistricting, having supported Proposition 11, also known as the Voters First Act. Prop 11 passed in 2008, leading to the creation of the CCRC 2011.
Schwarzenegger is leveraging his celebrity to convince citizens that Prop 50 is a regressive act against democratic processes.
The debate has drawn strong reactions from both sides. On one hand, prominent Democrats and their allies are advocating for unprecedented measures taken by the Trump administration. While bold, the action of democrats can only serve to help the country as a whole by no longer remaining passive.
On the other hand, many well-known Republicans and their supporters are urging a more passive approach, dismissing these issues as the concern of another state — despite the clear national implications.
Voting on this issue is something that each well-informed Californian must decide. Voting “yes” will send a clear message to the Trump administration. Voters have the power to counter the administration’s unlawful actions.
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TOP PHOTO: California Governor Gavin Newsom wantes to redraw California’s districts to offset election rigging in red states..
Musa Ashraf is the Arts & Entertainment Editor. Follow him on X, @MusaZash.
