Newsom’s Redistricting Faces National Scrutiny in Key Race
California’s redistricting efforts draw criticism as a key race shows Democratic dominance despite GOP spending.
2 min read
California Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom’s redistricting strategy is under fire as Republicans warn it could become a ‘national embarrassment.’ A recent poll indicates Democratic candidate Marni von Wilpert leads Republican Jim Desmond in California’s 48th Congressional District, despite millions in attacks against Desmond.
Poll Shows Democratic Lead
A survey conducted by The Tarrance Group from October 17-20 found von Wilpert leading Desmond 47% to 44% among 410 likely voters in the district. The poll’s margin of error is 4.9 percentage points. The survey was commissioned by Desmond’s campaign.
The district, which spans parts of San Diego and Riverside counties, was redrawn in the 2025 redistricting process, shifting it from a Republican-leaning seat to a Democratic battleground. With Rep. Darrell Issa (R-CA) retiring, Democrats hope to secure the seat.
Republican Criticism and Spending
National Republican Congressional Committee spokesman Christian Martinez criticized the Democratic campaign, stating that their spending had failed to eliminate Desmond’s chances. ‘Their candidate is a dud, their arrogance is expensive, and Jim Desmond will turn Gavin Newsom’s prized gerrymander into a national embarrassment,’ Martinez said.
Desmond’s campaign reported over $7.5 million in attacks since September. ‘People have lived through years of failed California policies. Higher taxes, higher costs, and a state that keeps making life harder for families. They know what that looks like, and they’re ready for something different,’ Desmond said.
Unpopular Governor
The poll also revealed Newsom’s unpopularity among unaffiliated voters, with 37% viewing him favorably and 53% unfavorably. Desmond, a San Diego County supervisor and former mayor of San Marcos, has focused on reducing taxes and opposing regulations.
Outside Spending and Fundraising
The race has attracted significant outside spending, with over $6 million in independent expenditures, mostly supporting von Wilpert. According to CalMatters, von Wilpert raised $4.5 million, compared to $3 million for Desmond.
The Cook Political Report rates the race ‘Lean Democratic,’ with the district having a D+2 partisan voting index. Democrats gained a three-percentage-point voter registration advantage in the redistricting effort.
Source: Daily Wire
