Pre-election fears rise in California: Will ICE be at polling stations?
Proposition 50 is being voted on in California this November 4th, and Governor Newsom is urging people to be vigilant for a possible ICE presence.
This Tuesday, November 4, California will hold a special election to vote on Proposition 50, which proposes redrawing the state’s congressional districts through 2030. The measure aims to redefine the boundaries of five districts currently held by Republicans.
Proposition 50 comes as Governor Gavin Newsom’s response to recent redistricting in Texas, where five Democratic seats were eliminated. Supporters argue that passing the measure is necessary to “counter partisan redistricting” taking place in other states.
A “yes” vote would approve the new district maps drafted by Democrats, while a “no” vote would keep the existing boundaries in place.
With one week remaining before the special election, Governor Newsom has urged voters, particularly those of immigrant origin, to stay alert to the possible presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents at polling places.
“It is likely that we will see [members of the military, ICE, and Border Patrol] inside and outside polling places,” Newsom warned, according to CalMatters.
Billie Eilish: “I am asking for your help. If you live in California like me, please, please vote YES on Prop 50 on or before November 4th. It is so unbelievably important and if you need any help voting you can go to https://t.co/8m0eIXsLrY” pic.twitter.com/QELE3D4tfM
— Marco Foster (@MarcoFoster_) October 30, 2025
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Following Newsom’s remarks, ICE issued a statement clarifying that the agency has no plans to conduct operations at polling sites or detention centers. However, officials added that if agents identify any “dangerous criminal alien” near polling locations, they will take enforcement action, leaving open the possibility of arrests in the area.
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