Newsom’s Redistricting Gamble Gains Traction Ahead of November Vote, New Poll Reveals
Newsom’s Redistricting Gamble Gains Traction Ahead of November Vote, New Poll Reveals

A recent UC Berkeley Institute of Governmental Studies poll, conducted this month from August 11-17, shows that California Governor Gavin Newsom’s contentious plan to temporarily redraw the state’s congressional districts is finding more support than opposition among voters. This development comes as state lawmakers have just approved legislation to secure the measure’s place on the November 2025 statewide special election ballot.
The poll, conducted for the Los Angeles Times, indicates that 46% of registered voters believe the redistricting is a good idea, compared to 36% who view it negatively. When asked about voting on the measure, 48% said they would vote in favor, though a significant 20% remain undecided. Support increases to 55% among consistent statewide voters, a group considered crucial for ballot measure success.
Newsom’s initiative is positioned as a countermeasure to partisan redistricting efforts by Republicans in states like Texas, which could impact the balance of power in the U.S. House. While critics argue the plan undermines California’s independent redistricting commission, the poll suggests public sentiment leans towards Newsom’s aggressive stance. The governor’s approval ratings have also seen an uptick, now at 51%, with a majority of respondents (59%) backing his combative approach against former President Trump.
Despite the initial positive showing, the path to victory in November is not guaranteed, with a substantial number of undecided voters, particularly among younger demographics and various ethnic groups. The measure recently overcame a legal challenge at the state Supreme Court, which rejected an emergency petition filed by Republicans.
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