California Republicans have filed a federal lawsuit seeking to block the implementation of a new U.S. House district map that was recently approved by state voters through Proposition 50. The measure, supported by Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, aims to help Democrats gain up to five congressional seats in the upcoming midterm elections.
The complaint alleges that the mapmakers used race as a primary factor in drawing new boundaries, specifically favoring Hispanic voters without sufficient justification. The lawsuit asks the court to halt the use of these boundaries before the 2026 elections. Funding for the legal action comes from the National Republican Congressional Committee.
According to the lawsuit, “states may not, without a compelling reason backed by evidence that was in fact considered, separate citizens into different voting districts on the basis of race.” The filing claims that two separate analyses found no voting rights issues necessitating changes to the previous district lines.
The Dhillon Law Group, led by Harmeet Dhillon—currently an assistant attorney general for civil rights at the U.S. Department of Justice—filed the suit in U.S. District Court for the Central District of California.
Republicans further allege that both lawmakers and a mapmaking consultant publicly acknowledged intentionally creating Latino-majority districts. Citing statements from state Democrats, they note: “the new map ‘retains and expands Voting Rights Act districts that empower Latino voters’ while making no changes to Black majority districts in the Oakland and Los Angeles areas,” according to court documents.
At a news conference on Wednesday, Mike Columbo said, “The map is designed to favor one race of California voters over others. This violates the 14th Amendment’s guarantee of equal protection under the law, and the right under the 15th Amendment.” Plaintiffs include a state Republican legislator and 18 other voters.
Paul Mitchell, who served as a consultant during redistricting, declined comment due to ongoing litigation.
Governor Newsom’s office responded via social media: “Good luck, losers,” adding that they had not yet reviewed the lawsuit but were confident it would not succeed.
Democratic leaders argue that Proposition 50 is their best opportunity to counter recent redistricting efforts in Texas intended to secure additional Republican seats at former President Donald Trump’s urging.
A three-judge panel could decide whether or not to grant a temporary restraining order before December 19—the date when candidates can begin gathering signatures required for ballot qualification ahead of next year’s election cycle. Columbo stated he hopes for a ruling within weeks and anticipates possible escalation of this case to the Supreme Court.
