California Special Election Sees 1.3 Million Early Ballots Amid Proposition 50 Vote

California voters are actively participating in the Nov. 4 special election regarding Proposition 50, a gerrymandering plan supported by Gov. Gavin Newsom and prominent Democrats like President Barack Obama. About 1.3 million ballots, representing 28% of those sent, have been returned in the Bay Area, while San Bernardino County has seen 18% of ballots cast with early voting locations available to facilitate participation. Proposition 50 proposes redrawing congressional maps to potentially flip five Republican-held seats to Democratic control in Central and Southern California, a response to recent Republican gerrymandering in Texas. The "Yes on 50" campaign has outspent opponents and enjoys backing from national Democratic figures, with polls indicating majority support among likely California voters. California Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber highlighted that over 5.4 million voters have signed up for the "Where's My Ballot?" tracking service, enhancing transparency and voter confidence. Voters have multiple options for ballot submission, with strict deadlines to ensure their votes are counted.