BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KERO) — California Democrats are celebrating the passage of Proposition 50, a ballot measure allowing state lawmakers and the governor to adopt new congressional maps ahead of the next election. But Republicans are already moving to challenge the measure in court.

“We’re proud of the work that the people of the state of California did tonight to send a powerful message,” Gov. Gavin Newsom said Tuesday.

Democrats hope the new maps will help them flip as many as five Republican-held House seats — including Rep. David Valadao’s 22nd District — after years of tight congressional margins.

Opponents argue the plan undermines voter-approved redistricting reforms and shifts power away from the public.

“Community members throughout the state of California have spent tens of

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