Democrats Surge Ahead in Prop 50 Spending as Election Nears

UPDATE: With just days until Election Day on November 4, the campaign supporting Proposition 50 is dominating in fundraising and spending, significantly outpacing its opponents. Recent disclosures reveal that the “Yes on 50” campaign has raised nearly $37 million from September 21 to October 19 alone—more than four times the combined total of opponents.

The stakes are incredibly high as this measure aims to redraw congressional district lines in California, potentially giving Democrats a strategic advantage in the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. This initiative is backed by prominent figures, including Governor Gavin Newsom, former President Barack Obama, and Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, all urging voters to support the controversial plan.

Analysts are predicting a strong likelihood of victory for Prop 50, bolstered by the significant financial edge. Over the course of the entire campaign, the “Yes” side has amassed a staggering $114 million in donations, compared to just $44 million for the opposition, which includes a notable $30 million expenditure by Republican megadonor Charles Munger Jr..

Political analysts, including David McCuan from Sonoma State University, suggest that current trends indicate Prop 50 could pass by a margin of around 15 percentage points. A recent CBS News poll found that 62% of likely voters are in favor of the measure, while just 38% oppose it.

As the campaign enters its final stretch, supporters remain relentless. Hannah Milgrom, a spokesperson for “Yes on 50,” emphasized their commitment to maintaining momentum: “We’re going pedal to the metal.” Meanwhile, opponents, bolstered by Munger’s significant contributions, continue to campaign vigorously. Amy Thoma Tan, representing Munger’s committee, insisted that “anything can happen” before the polls close.

The implications of Prop 50 are far-reaching. If passed, it would enable Democrats to redraw five GOP-held districts in California, potentially reshaping the political landscape and impacting national dynamics during the 2026 elections. Such a shift could hinder President Donald Trump’s agenda, allowing Democrats to regain control in Congress.

Opponents argue that the measure represents a blatant power grab by Democrats. The California Republican Party has circulated materials portraying Prop 50 as a scheme to manipulate elections, warning that it elevates Gavin Newsom’s ambitions over the needs of Californians.

As Election Day approaches, the “Yes on 50” campaign has enlisted high-profile support, with Obama featuring in TV ads emphasizing the urgency of the vote. “California, the whole nation is counting on you,” he states, framing the decision as critical to protecting democracy against Republican efforts to consolidate power.

The time to act is now. With just days remaining before the vote, both sides are ramping up efforts to sway undecided voters. The outcome of this initiative could redefine California’s congressional representation and significantly influence the political landscape on a national scale.

Stay tuned for updates as this high-stakes election unfolds.