Rigging elections is something that has been going on since the beginning of time. Only now it appears more blatant, deliberate and calculated.
President Trump has inserted himself into the 2026 midterm elections with plans adopted in Texas, Missouri and Utah for the revision of congressional districts favoring a Republican outcome.
California voters have the opportunity to counter those decisions on Nov. 4 by voting for Proposition 50. If this passes, it would temporarily suspend the 2008 voter approved Voters First Act that instituted a committee to draw the lines for state and congressional districts.
“The 14-member commission is made up of five Republicans, five Democrats, and four not affiliated with either of those two parties,” according to a state website. “The commission must draw the district lines in conformity with strict, nonpartisan rules designed to create districts of relatively equal population that will provide fair representation for all Californians.”
Interestingly, it’s Republicans who balked at this idea years ago. Now they are the ones up in arms over the threat of gerrymandering—which is what Prop. 50 would allow—all because it favors Democrats who are in control in California.
Clearly, our system is broken—in California and elsewhere.
When will we evolve so our votes matter? This partisanship is hurting everyone. We must and can do better. Independent commissions should be the norm, without the ability to overturn them.
I’m usually of the belief that two wrongs don’t make a right. I’ve also come to learn that walking away from a bully doesn’t stop his or her behavior. In other words, you must stand up to bullies.
I plugged my nose when I checked the “yes” box for Prop. 50 with the saving grace being that this overturning of a bipartisan commission is temporary. Fingers are crossed this really is for the greater good.
Some info to know for California voters:
- Oct. 20—Last day to register to vote in the Nov. 4 election.
- All voters will receive a ballot by mail.
- Oct. 6 ballots started to be mailed.
- Oct. 7 ballot drop-off locations opened.
- Ballots may be returned by mail, at a drop-off location, or your county elections office.
- In-person voting centers open Oct. 25.
- Mail ballots must be postmarked no later than Election Day and received by Nov. 12.
I’m right there with ya.
What a mess. Regardless, voting YES on Prop 50 offers an opportunity to stand up to the bullies.
If commercials on TV are any indication, then “NO” is going to pass. “No” commercials have been rampant and overwhelming. I agree that redistricting is “not” a fair way to win an election. I voted “yes”.
Based on the ridiculous bills the super majority democrat legislators have passed with zero opposition opportunities. It should be an absolute No on Prop 50! The state of CA needs saving and giving up more votes from the people isn’t going to fix California! I double dog dare everyone to pick a few bills and read their history! It’s insane what is happening and a yes vote gives them more power and the voters less power with this prop! It’s a No On Prop 50!
I am a strong YES on Prop 50.
It is temporary and we need a strong response to the efforts made elsewhere to disenfranchise their voters and steal the mid-terms.