The Daily Signal Victor Davis Hanson: Newsom’s Redistricting Ploy Makes a ‘Jigsaw Puzzle Look Proportional’
Oct 16, 2025
The discussion dives into California's Proposition 50, a controversial move to allow the governor to redraw congressional districts. Critics argue it could eliminate nearly all Republican representation, reducing it from 17% to just 9%. Supporters liken it to Texas' efforts to consolidate power, but detractors say it's a blatant attempt to solidify Democrat dominance. The rhetoric surrounding the proposition is heating up, with Governor Newsom openly expressing aggressive sentiments towards Republicans. Will this partisan initiative succeed in a Democrat-heavy state?
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Prop 50 Shifts Redistricting Power
- Victor Davis Hanson argues Prop 50 hands redistricting power to Gavin Newsom's administration, shifting control from the existing commission.
- He contends this move would likely increase Democratic seats and further underrepresent California Republicans.
Current Maps Already Favor Democrats
- Hanson says California's current map already underrepresents Republicans compared with statewide vote totals.
- He asserts the redistricting scheme would compress Republicans into few districts and create many safe Democratic seats.
Republicans Substantially Underrepresented
- California has 52 congressional seats but only nine Republican representatives, about 17% of seats.
- Hanson notes Republicans typically poll near 40%, so current representation is far below voter share.