In June 2010, Californians joined most of the rest of the democratic world by amending our constitution to require our elected officials to receive a majority of votes to take office. Unfortunately, for recall elections, California’s old, broken election rules remain in place.

If this particular recall is successful, the replacement governor is likely to be “elected” with less than a third of the votes, violating the bedrock democratic principle of one person, one vote, and reinstating minority rule at the highest level in California. This would be a huge step backwards for California democracy.

California voters will be able to participate in a fair process for choosing our next governor starting with the primary election in June 2022. We believe that basic tenets of democracy are worth the nine-month wait.

In the meantime, we join 68% of California voters in urging our elected officials to place a constitutional amendment on the next ballot to reform California recall elections, requiring a run-off if no candidate gets a majority of votes.

As a 501(c)(3) think tank, we cannot endorse a replacement candidate. We recommend you read the official voter guide and, after voting NO on the recall question itself, vote for the replacement candidate who best represents you.

Recall Election Facts:

• You may always vote for a replacement candidate, even if you vote no on the recall.
• All registered California voters will receive a ballot in the mail.
• Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by September 14, election day. Postage is already paid—you don’t need a stamp!
• August 30 is the last day to register to vote and receive a mail-in ballot. If you register after that date, you must vote in person.
• The election is expected to be close and will likely be decided by voter turnout. Your vote counts!