The U.S. Department of Justice announced legal action to block California’s plan, which was approved by a large majority. California is temporarily redrawing its electoral districts for the 2026 midterm elections to give Democrats an advantage.
The proposal, known as Proposition 50, includes “racial gerrymandering of districts” in violation of the 14th Amendment, according to the complaint.
Attorney General Pam Bondi said in a statement that the plan is “a brazen power grab that tramples on civil rights and makes a mockery of our democratic process.”
California voters overwhelmingly supported the plan, and the results were interpreted as a significant victory for Governor Gavin Newsom. Governor Newsom has solidified his prospects as a leading figure in the Democratic Party by openly challenging Republican President Donald Trump.
Proposition 50 contemplates temporary redistricting that could give Democrats five more seats in the fight for control of Congress in next year’s midterm elections.
After the Texas Republican Party approved its own redistricting plan, Newsom and his Democratic allies promoted the initiative as a way to “stand up to Trump” and level the playing field.
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