The wealthy scientist fighting California's redistricting plan

The Battle Over California’s Redistricting Map

A deep-pocketed scientist and heir to the Berkshire Hathaway fortune is determined to stop Governor Gavin Newsom's plan to redraw California's congressional map. Charles Munger Jr., a Republican with a long history of supporting nonpartisan redistricting, has poured over $32 million into his ballot measure committee to oppose Proposition 50. This effort highlights the high stakes of the November 4 vote, which could reshape California's political landscape.

Newsom has positioned Munger as a key opponent in his campaign to pass Prop 50, which aims to create a fairer redistricting process. In a September fundraiser, Newsom claimed that one individual had donated $10 million to defeat his initiative. This narrative has been amplified through ads that label Munger as a Republican extremist, despite his claims that such portrayals are misleading.

Key Players and Their Motives

Munger’s efforts to influence redistricting have spanned years. He played a significant role in establishing the nonpartisan commission that currently draws district lines. His father, Charles Munger Sr., was a prominent figure in the business world, leaving an estimated $2 billion in assets. Munger has stated that he is using his inheritance to fight what he sees as a threat to fair elections.

The “Protect Voters First” committee, funded by Munger, argues that Prop 50 would undermine California’s fair elections. The committee has spent millions on advertising and mailers, including a video ad that features a kettlebell destroying blocks spelling "FAIR ELECTIONS." Another ad uses footage of former Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger warning about the potential consequences of Prop 50.

Political Implications and Public Perception

Support for Prop 50 has been steady, with polls showing it at around the 50% threshold needed for passage. However, a significant portion of voters remain undecided, and referendums often underperform compared to poll results.

Munger’s opposition to Prop 50 has drawn criticism from liberal megadonors like Tom Steyer, who has launched a $12 million campaign to support the measure. Newsom’s campaign has also received substantial funding, including $10 million from George Soros. These financial backers see Prop 50 as a way to counteract the influence of President Trump and ensure a more balanced representation in Congress.

Controversies and Criticisms

Supporters of Prop 50 have targeted Munger’s donations to socially conservative causes. An ad from the "Yes on 50" committee describes him as a "MAGA millionaire" working with Trump to aid Republicans. The ad highlights his contributions to antiabortion and anti-LGBT organizations, though Munger’s spokesperson denies these claims.

IRS filings show that Munger’s foundation has given over $6 million in charitable contributions since 2011. These include donations to Christian-affiliated causes and organizations that serve those in need. Munger has also attempted to distance himself from the MAGA wing of the Republican Party, stating that he does not identify with its ideology.

Shifting Alliances and Political Isolation

Munger’s efforts have led to a rift with some of his former allies. Common Cause, a good government group that previously partnered with him on redistricting measures, returned a $200,000 donation and stated it would not oppose Prop 50. This shift reflects the broader political realignments happening in California.

Despite these challenges, Munger remains committed to his vision of a fairer redistricting process. He believes that the current system, controlled by a nonpartisan commission, ensures more equitable representation. However, his opponents argue that Prop 50 is necessary to prevent future gerrymandering and protect democratic principles.

As the November election approaches, the battle over California’s redistricting map continues to unfold, with significant implications for the state’s political future.