BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — With Election Day here, volunteers on both sides of Proposition 50 are knocking on doors and phone-banking across Bakersfield, hoping to boost turnout in one of California’s most closely watched districts.

What You Need To Know

Proposition 50 would allow mid-decade redistricting in California, potentially adding up to six Democratic-leaning seats in Congress

Supporters say the measure protects California’s voice in Washington after Texas redrew its map to benefit Republicans

Opponents call Proposition 50 a constitutional overreach and say it’s a partisan power grab

Kern County — home to CA-22 and Rep. David Valadao — is a battleground district where turnout could shape the balance of power

California’s 22nd Congressional District — represented by Republican David Valadao — could be significantly reshaped if Proposition 50 passes.

The measure would allow California to redraw its congressional maps in the middle of the decade, a response from Gov. Gavin Newsom to a recent Texas redistricting effort expected to benefit Republicans in the U.S. House.

Supporters point to rising costs and political frustration as motivation for change.

“People are ready for change,” said Noe Garcia, with the Kern County Young Democrats. “Folks are feeling the effects of this Republican administration — rising grocery prices, rising gas prices. Our economy is not getting any better for working-class people. This proposition will show that voters here are ready.”

Opponents argue Proposition 50 undermines California’s constitution and sets a dangerous precedent.

“If we’re willing to suspend the state constitution for something like this… what stops the governor and the legislature from suspending it on other issues?” said Matthew Martin, chair of the Kern County Young Republicans. “The answer is nothing. It’s the wrong thing to do.”

Valadao holds the most Democratic-leaning district represented by a Republican in the nation. A mid-cycle redraw could make the district even more favorable for Democrats.

Republicans acknowledge the challenge ahead.

“Even though Valadao has been able to hold on… it’s going to be very, very difficult,” Martin said.

Despite the political battle, both sides say the message they’re pushing to voters is the same: show up to the polls.

In canvassing conversations and phone calls all weekend, volunteers stressed the importance of turning in ballots — not only for this election, but ahead of next November’s midterms as well.