Contributions to 2025 Ballot Measures Total $178 Million
As of October, individuals and organizations had contributed a total of $178.44 million toward campaigns supporting or opposing 30 statewide ballot measures in 2025.
For this election cycle, ballot measures were certified in nine states: California, Colorado, Louisiana, Maine, New York, Ohio, Texas, Washington, and Wisconsin. Earlier in 2025, voters in Louisiana, Ohio, and Wisconsin had already voted on six ballot measures. On November 4, residents in six states will decide on 24 additional measures.
California Proposition 50 Dominates Campaign Funding
Of the 30 ballot measures nationwide, 13 attracted campaign financing in favor or opposition. The most heavily funded initiative is California’s Proposition 50, scheduled for a vote on November 4.
Proposition 50 would authorize the state to adopt a new, legislature-drawn congressional district map covering the years 2026 through 2030. According to the latest campaign finance records, combined contributions for and against the measure have reached approximately $166.3 million. Supporters have raised $121.9 million, while opponents have collected $44.4 million.
Prop 50 accounts for 93% of all statewide ballot measure spending across all states in 2025.
This makes it the fourth most expensive statewide ballot measure in California’s history. It is also the only initiative in California’s top ten measures focused on election policy. Historically, other costly initiatives in the state addressed gambling, rent control, taxation, business regulation, and healthcare.
Major Donors
The largest supporter of Proposition 50 is the House Majority PAC, contributing $16 million through its dedicated committee, HMP for Prop 50.
Author Summary
In 2025, U.S. ballot measure contributions totaled $178 million, with California’s Proposition 50 dominating campaign spending and shaping debates on redistricting and election law.