Former President Barack Obama has urged California voters to support Proposition 50, a ballot measure aimed at redrawing congressional districts to potentially add up to five Democratic seats in response to Republican gains in Texas. The endorsement comes as early voting is underway for the November 4 election, which could influence House control ahead of the 2026 midterms. Obama released a video on social media highlighting the national stakes of the measure.
Proposition 50 seeks to implement temporary changes to California's 52 congressional districts until new maps are drawn after the 2030 census. It directly responds to Texas Republicans' redistricting plan, approved by Governor Greg Abbott in August, which added five Republican seats to the U.S. House. According to the California Democratic Party, the measure would negate those Texas gains and allow Democrats to secure up to five additional seats, enabling them to counter President Donald Trump's agenda.
In a video posted on X on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, Obama emphasized the urgency: "California, the whole nation is counting on you. Democracy is on the ballot November 4th. Republicans want to steal enough seats in Congress to rig the next election, and wield unchecked power for two more years." He added, "With Prop 50, you can stop Republicans in their tracks. Prop 50 puts our elections back on a level playing field, preserves independent redistricting over the long term and lets the people decide. Return your ballot today. Vote yes on 50."
The campaign, backed by Governor Gavin Newsom and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, has attracted tens of millions in funding. Pelosi called for volunteers on X, stating it would "help promote our vision of a more free, safer, and healthier California for all." The ad is funded by the "Yes on 50" committee, with top contributors including HMP for Prop 50, the Fund for Policy Reform, and the California Teachers Association.
Opposition is strong from Republicans and former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger, who view it as gerrymandering. Representative Kevin Kiley posted on X: "If you believe gerrymandering is wrong, vote NO on 50. If you believe politicians should be bound by the Constitution, vote NO on 50." A $5 million donation came from the Congressional Leadership Fund, tied to House Speaker Mike Johnson. Los Angeles County GOP Chair Roxanne Hoge told The Daily Wire the measure could be defeated with high turnout and voter contact, noting it is currently "neck and neck" due to its title and summary.
A co/efficient poll from early October showed 54% support, 36% opposition, and 10% unsure. The California Secretary of State describes Proposition 50 as allowing "temporary changes to congressional district maps in response to Texas’ partisan redistricting." If Texas's maps face court challenges and fail, California's new Democratic-favoring map would remain in place. The outcome could determine House control and affect Trump's influence on issues like immigration and reproductive rights.