Arnold Schwarzenegger is making a renewed political push, focusing on partisan issues. His mission is to “end gerrymandering,” and he’s joined by notable figures like former GOP Speaker Kevin McCarthy and investor Charlie Munger.
Schwarzenegger has been a longtime advocate for fair constituency practices, and the voters approved related measures during his governorship. Current California Governor Gavin Newsom has noted that any new zoning plans shouldn’t disrupt existing systems.
Interestingly, although Schwarzenegger is a Republican, his views often diverge sharply from mainstream party lines, especially on issues like climate change. Many believe his legacy of reform is something he takes great pride in—though he clearly thinks it’s under threat now.
Democrats in California, under Newsom’s leadership, plan to ask voters to approve new voting measures this fall. This action bypasses the state’s independent constituency committee, putting into effect a legislatively approved redistricting plan.
This new plan could potentially alter Republican strongholds in Texas, where the legislature recently approved a new district map that may secure five additional GOP house seats. Newsom looks at the Texas strategy as part of a wider Republican attempt to manipulate the upcoming midterms, stressing that if the plan is passed, it will revert back to an Independent Commission after future elections.
Schwarzenegger has voiced his opposition to maneuvers in both states, stating, “What they’re doing in Texas is very wrong. What they’re trying to do in California is very wrong. It’s not serving people. It’s serving the parties,” he said in a recent interview.
During his two terms as governor, he established an independent district committee and supported voter-approved reforms in 2008 and 2010. In an interview earlier this month, Schwarzenegger explained that he has a solid relationship with the media and isn’t backing Trump; he is more focused on safeguarding the electoral system he helped create.
“That’s not personal,” he remarked, underscoring his commitment to a citizen-led constituency.
California Republican strategist Mike Madrid highlighted that while this move may appear to be a legacy play for Schwarzenegger, it’s also something he has been passionate about for a long time—long before he even ran for governor.
Schwarzenegger is seen as uniquely positioned to push back against Proposition 50, offering a different perspective from others who may feel pressured to adopt a more partisan stance. However, the specifics of his plan for the next couple of months remain somewhat unclear, although he has signaled readiness for what he calls the “Gerrymandering Battle.”
His merchandise site features a “Gerrymandering” shirt, with proceeds supporting the California and Texas branches of the Federation of Women Voters. He has not openly taken a position on Proposition 50 yet but has supported initiatives reported on through various media outlets.
Newsom emphasized during a Politico Summit that he has been a proponent of independent constituency reforms and reiterated that the upcoming vote supports democratic integrity. He also mentioned having discussions with Schwarzenegger about this issue and indicated that he respects Schwarzenegger’s views.
Newsom added, “If you genuinely care about this issue, you’re going to address it.” He also reminded Schwarzenegger of the importance of maintaining independent constituencies to honor his legacy.
Plans for constitutional reform at the national level are also on the table, reflecting a call for fairness in the electoral process. Meanwhile, McCarthy has rallied support to “Stop Newsom’s Power Glove.” While Trump isn’t directly involved, he has threatened legal actions against California regarding these plans, which complicates matters given Schwarzenegger’s position in California’s largely Democratic electorate.
In addition to this, various factions within the opposition, including traditional Republicans and reformers, strive to oppose Proposition 50. Strategies seem diverse, and there’s some tension concerning messaging and fundraising efforts.
With the special election quickly approaching on November 4th, the fight over California’s redistricting could become one of the most expensive and contentious campaigns in the state’s history. So far, over $13 million has been raised in support, while $10 million has been designated against—from groups including Munger’s funding.
California Republicans have attempted to halt redistricting plans through the state Supreme Court, but both petitions were denied, leaving experts to speculate that legal challenges may continue. Some top Republicans have even suggested a “two-state solution” that would isolate conservative areas in response to the rezoning, although this idea seems unlikely to pass through a Democratic-dominated legislature.
The Democrats, for their part, view this as more than just a local issue; it serves as a referendum on Trump’s influence in the state. As the contest heats up, it is evident that both sides will be engaging in a complex and high-stakes political game this fall.
