California Special Election Day is Tuesday

SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — Tuesday is Election Day in California where the only statewide measure on the special election ballot is Prop 50. Voters will decide whether to temporarily change how California draws its congressional district maps.

It’s the first statewide special election in California since 2021 and voter turnout so far is around 35% in San Diego County.

"We mailed out over two million ballots. Of that, 700,000 have already been returned, plus the additional 10,000 in person voting," shared Shawn Brom, Assistant Registrar of Voters.

A yes vote would support a new congressional map drawn by lawmakers starting in 2026. Changes would last until 2030. After that, the independent commission is expected to resume.

"That’s like politicians telling you there’s going to be a temporary tax. I wouldn’t believe them," said San Diego County Supervisor and congressional candidate Jim Desmond.

A no vote stops those efforts. Those opposed say it would weaken Democratic safeguards.

"I think we had the gold standard for drawing lines, but it’s being usurped and undermined. The fact that the voters of California said no we don’t want gerrymandering anymore we want to have an independent commission," Desmond said.

Meantime California gubernatorial candidate Katie Porter was in San Diego for a rally Monday, making the final push for support and saying that everyone across America is counting on California.

"Passing Prop 50 will send a powerful message to Donald Trump, that California is going to fight for our values," Porter said.

Brom says the effort to recall Governor Gavin Newsom saw about a 60% turnout four years ago, but participation does vary on the issues and the election cycle.

Tuesday 68 vote centers across the county will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. For those who have not registered to vote, they can still stop by any vote center, fill out a conditional ballot and vote provisionally. The election will officially be certified on Dec. 2.