UPDATE: In a dramatic turn of events, California Republicans have filed a federal lawsuit against Proposition 50 just hours after voters approved the redistricting measure on November 5, 2023. This legal challenge aims to block the newly approved congressional maps, which supporters argue will enhance representation for Latino voters but critics claim amounts to unconstitutional gerrymandering.
The California Republican Party, alongside Assemblymember David Tangipa and 18 individual voters, launched this urgent lawsuit, alleging that the redistricting plan violates the 14th and 15th Amendments by favoring one racial group over others. Their attorneys assert that gerrymandering, which seeks to give an unfair advantage to Hispanic voters, lacks a necessary legal foundation under the Voting Rights Act.
Governor Gavin Newsom, a major proponent of Proposition 50, is named in the lawsuit along with California Secretary of State Shirley Weber. Newsom’s office responded swiftly, with spokesperson Brandon Richards declaring, “We haven’t reviewed the lawsuit, but it’s going to fail.” His colorful remark, “Good luck, losers,” highlights the contentious atmosphere surrounding this issue.
The Proposition 50 victory was called immediately after polls closed, signaling a significant shift in California’s political landscape. Supporters of the measure argue it counters Republican gerrymandering efforts in other states and is designed to safeguard Democratic seats in the upcoming 2026 elections.
Legal representatives for the plaintiffs, including attorney Mike Columbo from the Dhillon Law Group, voiced concerns that the maps drawn by Democrats do not meet the Supreme Court’s criteria for justifying racial gerrymandering. “Hispanics make up the most voters in the state. … They have had fantastic success in electing candidates of their choice,” Columbo stated during a press conference, arguing that California cannot claim to meet the necessary exceptions for such a practice.
As part of their legal strategy, the plaintiffs are requesting an injunction against the implementation of the new congressional maps, emphasizing the urgency for candidates who need clarity on district boundaries ahead of filing deadlines in early 2024.
House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Proposition 50, calling it “a sign of desperation” from the Democratic Party. He condemned the move as a blatant attempt to manipulate election outcomes, saying, “It was a game to try to rig the election — as if you could gerrymander California anymore.”
This legal battle reflects broader tensions in California’s political climate, with implications that could resonate nationally as the midterm elections approach. With the stakes high, this developing story is poised to evolve rapidly, and observers are urged to stay tuned for further updates.
This is a developing news story. Check back for more updates on this urgent situation.
