Newsom Asks Supporters to Halt Donations as Proposition 50 Vote Nears
Sacramento, CA – in a stunning and unprecedented move, California Governor Gavin Newsom is asking supporters to stop donating to his campaign for Proposition 50, a ballot measure that would redraw the state’s congressional districts. The proclamation comes just one week before voters decide on the controversial measure, which aims to elect more Democrats to Congress.
“You can stop donating now,” Newsom wrote in an email to his donor base on Monday. He elaborated further in a video posted to X (formerly Twitter) on Tuesday, stating the campaign has already surpassed its fundraising goals, securing a remarkable $38 million from 1.2 million individual donors. “Enough,” Newsom declared in the video, adding, “Thank you, I never thought I’d ever say that. we’ve raised enough money to win this campaign.”
Proposition 50 has ignited a fierce debate over partisan gerrymandering. The measure seeks to redraw California’s congressional map, mirroring actions taken in states like Texas to benefit republican candidates. Newsom has positioned himself as a champion of the initiative, arguing for a counter-balance to what he views as unfair map-drawing practices elsewhere.
The governor’s decision to halt fundraising has been met wiht surprise.The new York Times described the move as “highly unorthodox,” while Republican strategist Matt gorman characterized it as ”braggadocious,” suggesting Newsom is prematurely declaring victory.
However, Newsom defended his decision, emphasizing that while fundraising efforts are concluding, the campaign is far from over. “This election is not over, so let’s do everything in our power to focus on getting out the vote,” he stated in the social media video. “But you stepped up and you stepped in.Mad respect to all of you.”
The unexpected shift in strategy signals a high degree of confidence from the Newsom campaign as the vote on Proposition 50 rapidly approaches.The outcome will likely have significant implications for the balance of power in Congress.
Keywords: Gavin Newsom, Proposition 50, California, Gerrymandering, Fundraising, Election, Politics, Democrats, Republicans, Congressional Districts, Campaign finance.
