UPDATE: Over 4.5 million ballots have already been cast in California’s critical redistricting special election ahead of Election Day on November 4. This surge in voter participation indicates a potentially historic turnout, as ballots continue to pour in faster than in previous elections.
As of October 26, the California Secretary of State’s office reports that approximately 20% of registered voters have submitted their votes, with notable participation across counties: 15% in Los Angeles County, 22% in Orange County, 19% in Riverside County, and 14.5% in San Bernardino County.
Data analyst Paul Mitchell from Political Data Inc. highlighted that the current rate of ballot returns exceeds that of last year’s presidential election at this time. He cautioned, however, that the single-item ballot for Proposition 50, which aims to redraw congressional districts, could be influencing this expedited turnout.
The California Secretary of State has dispatched over 23.2 million mail-in ballots to registered voters. Those who missed the registration deadline are still able to cast conditional or provisional ballots in person. As ballots continue to come in, the focus shifts to whether this swift pace will translate into a higher overall turnout.
Proposition 50 proposes mid-decade redistricting, aiming to adjust district maps to favor Democrats amidst ongoing accusations of gerrymandering from both parties. Supporters, including Governor Gavin Newsom, argue that the measure is a necessary response to Republican gerrymandering efforts in other states, which could impact the balance of power in Congress following the midterm elections.
The first batch of in-person voting centers opened on Saturday, offering voters an alternative to mail-in ballots. Polls will close at 8 p.m. on Election Day, but anyone in line at that time will still be allowed to cast their vote.
Voters are reminded that mail-in ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received by county election offices within seven days to be counted. The urgency of these decisions underscores the significant impact of this election on California’s political landscape.
As the voting frenzy escalates, Californians remain engaged and eager to make their voices heard. With developments unfolding rapidly, the next few days will be crucial in determining the outcome of this pivotal election.
