Prop 5

Under current law, voters elect replacement candidates at the same time as the recall election. This measure instead fills recall vacancies by subsequent special election or appointment. 

Fiscal Impact: Net fiscal effect unknown. In the event of a recall, savings or costs of millions of dollars to administer the election depending on the office recalled. 

Supporters: None submitted 

Opponents: None submitted

WHAT YOUR VOTE MEANS

YES
A YES vote on this measure means: Recall elections would no longer include a question about who should fill the vacancy. Instead, vacancies typically would be filled through special elections or appointments, depending on the office and timing.

NO
A NO vote on this measure means: Voters would continue to be asked who should fill the vacancy as part of recall elections.

ARGUMENTS

PRO
Proposition 5 restores the recall to its original purpose: removing corrupt officials. It closes the loophole that allows replacements to win with a small fraction of the vote, reducing the politics and costs of future recalls. Endorsed by League of Women Voters of California and California Common Cause. Vote YES

CON
Proposition 5 degrades California’s century-old recall process by limiting voters’ right to select a replacement for recalled officials. Instead, when statewide elected officials are recalled, other politicians would choose a replacement. For lower offices, another costly, taxpayer-funded election would come months later, leaving the office vacant and the people unrepresented.