On Election Day, California voters decide on Prop 50, a redistricting measure that could reshape Congress.
The episode opens on Election Day, November 4th, 2024, with hosts Karin Loda and Mary Elizabeth highlighting California's Proposition 50, a redistricting initiative. Headlines include the death of former Vice President Dick Cheney and updates on SNAP benefits. Reporter Zitlali Arellano visits the Amundsen Senior Center polling place, where voters express support for Prop 50 as a Democratic pushback against GOP redistricting in Texas. Voter Trevor Jackson emphasizes voting's importance, while others hope it serves as a wake-up call. Aidan Max Juarez reports on national implications, interviewing Politico editor-in-chief John Harris, who compares the redistricting battle to a nuclear arms race and notes Governor Gavin Newsom's role. Virginia Senator Tim Kaine discusses how state races might predict midterm trends. Amy Contreras investigates Prop 50 funding, revealing $130 million raised and strategic independent spending by figures like Tom Steyer. USC's Diego Andradez explains the campaign framed Prop 50 as anti-Trump. Mary Elizabeth interviews USC professor Christian Gross, who details redistricting history, the California Citizens Redistricting Commission, and how Prop 50 would temporarily suspend its maps, impacting districts like Ken Calvert's. Doug Emhoff urges young voters to engage, and USC students share their perspectives. Reporter Evan Abelson covers long lines at the USC Village polling place, interviewing first-time voter Delilah Garcia. The show concludes with election projections for Virginia and New Jersey, and credits the production team.
