Former President Barack Obama is lending his voice to California Governor Gavin Newsom’s campaign for Proposition 50, appearing in a new ad aimed at boosting Democratic turnout ahead of next month’s special election.
In the ad, Obama speaks directly to viewers: “California, the whole nation is counting on you. Democracy is on the ballot November 4th.” While he never names President Donald Trump, he accuses Republicans of “trying to steal enough seats in Congress to rig the next election,” with images of Trump appearing on-screen.
Obama has previously expressed support for Newsom’s redistricting efforts at fundraisers and on social media, framing the campaign as a counter to GOP-led congressional redistricting in Texas and other states. His appearance in the ad marks a more direct role in the effort.
Newsom, a likely 2028 presidential contender, has been the primary face of the pro-Prop. 50 campaign, but the effort has also recruited national Democrats like Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, and Sen. Alex Padilla to energize the base.
In contrast, Proposition 50’s opponents have largely avoided featuring major Republican figures in their advertising. Their most prominent endorser, Arnold Schwarzenegger, has a complicated relationship with Trump and the current Republican Party.
The Obama ad began airing Tuesday on broadcast, cable, and digital platforms. Campaign officials have not disclosed the size of the media buy.