Tuesday, July 8, 2025

Missouri: Recall of Jackson County Executive/All-Star Royals 2nd Baseman scheduled for August 26th

Jackson County has scheduled the upcoming recall election against Jackson County Executive Frank White, former Royals former All-Star 2nd Baseman and member of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame for August 26th. 

White could try to veto the decision, but that seems irrelevant.

The recall is over complaints that property taxes are going up between 30% - 400%. There is a complaint that White's salary went up 7%. A recall was threatened last year as well. White says that it was over his vote against a Stadium, and the leaders of the petition (who owe $150,000 for polling), are contractors who wanted a yes vote.

Apparently, White has only attended one of 29 meetings this year.

Petitioners got 43011 valid signature and needed 42902. It sounded like over 80,000 signatures had been handed in. At one point, the pro-recall group said they need (or needed -- I'm not clear) to raise $150,000 to get the petitioners to hand it in. This appears to be a separate group handing in the signatures that raise the total to 80,000. It is not clear how that worked.

Three legislators have asked the Attorney General for an investigation into White. White has accused one legislator of illegally using staff to help with the recall. 

The recall is estimated to cost $2 million, though frequently those numbers change. 

Ohio: Cleveland Height Mayor recall scheduled for September 9

The recall election of Cleveland Heights Mayor Kahlil Seren has been scheduled for September 9, the same day as the primary. The City Council also noted that the Mayor cannot use the social media account for political messaging. 

Petitioners said they handed in 4425 signatures and apparently got 3845 valids. They needed 2900. Approximately 500 were invalidated.

It was previously announced that Seren had failed to make the ballot for a reelection race,  he needed 342 signatures but was 39 short (a number of petitioners had signed other petitions as well). 

The recall is over claims that his wife has allegedly made numerous anti-Semitic comments against city employees and other officials and a civil rights complaint filed against him. Seren is also being faulted for a high turnover rate and failed budget process.

Monday, July 7, 2025

California: Poway Councilmember facing renewed recall effort

Poway Councilmember Tony Blain is facing a renewed recall push, with Mayor Steven Vaus calling for his removal. 

Blain first faced a recall effort after his censure for claims of an attempted vote trade. There are also complaints of bullying, harassment, retaliation and bribery, with a particularly strong response from the City Attorney. Blain argues that contractors and developers are leading the effort. Petitioners need 2500 signatures to get to the ballot.

Poway recalled councilmember Betty Rexford in 2010. 

Maine: Lisbon Councilor resigns, Council Chair facing petitions

Lisbon Council Chair Fern Larochelle is facing petitions, and petitions were taken out against Councilor Jeremy Barnard, who then resigned. 

Petitioners are claiming financial and ethical neglect, specifically a 60% increase in municipal expenditures as well as unnamed conflict of interest issues.

Larochelle has been in office for nearly 20 years.

California: San Francisco Supervisor raises 3X opponents in recall, though faces significant challenges

Supporters of San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio have raised over $536,000 to battle against the recall, which is three times more than the opponents. However, this article and others note that Engradio is facing significant challenges, including the fact that he won office by 469 votes. 

The recall election is scheduled for September 16. 

The recall is over the Engardio's support for the passage of Prop. K, which will lead to a new park and the closing of the Great Highway. 

Proposition K passed with 56% of the vote, but in Engardio's district, the vote was 63.7% opposed, so real risk. 

Petitioners handed in 10,985 signatures, with 10.523 valid. They needed 9911. 

The validity rate was 95.8%. It's not clear why they did a full count. They previously announced a 99,3% validity rate, when they checked 549 checked signature using the randomg sampling method. That would suggest that they didn't need to check each one. 

Petitioners handed supposedly collected over 14000, which appears to mean that they did a great job of checking them over (they may have handed in another 300 additional ones).

Here's my last look at signature verification rates for other large recall events.

The lead petition resigned from the role over debates about spending -- reportedly, the campaign has spent over $100,000 for signature collection and is looking to put in some more, though they are in debt. Engardio has a 4-1 advantage in funds. 

Taiwan: DPP looks to temper expectations in upcoming recall vote

The Democratic Progressive Party is trying to temper expectations in the recall campaign, after President Lai Ching-Te suggested that up to 15 Kuomintang legislators could be ousted. 

Recalls against 24 legislators from the Kuomintang Party made the July 26th ballot, as well as Hsinchu Mayor Ann Kao. The mass recall campaign was launched by the Democratic Progressive Party against 41 members of the Kuomintang and Taiwan People's Party, and the DPP faced numerous recalls, leading to efforts against 79 legislators. Two efforts against DPP members are outstanding.

The recalls started after the KMT passed laws targeting the Constitutional Court, the budget and looking to change the recall act itself

The Kao recall is suspended following a corruption investigation.

Here's an editorial looking into what the numbers mean, including the fact that the KMT need to lose more than 6 seats to lose their majority.

Missouri: Jackson County Executive/All-Star Royals 2nd Baseman Recall makes the ballot; possibly scheduled for August 26th

The recall effort against Jackson County Executive Frank White, former Royals former All-Star 2nd Baseman and member of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame, has made the ballot and looks to be scheduled for August 26th. 

The recall is over complaints that property taxes are going up between 30% - 400%. There is a complaint that White's salary went up 7%. A recall was threatened last year as well. White says that it was over his vote against a Stadium, and the leaders of the petition (who owe $150,000 for polling), are contractors who wanted a yes vote.

Petitioners got 43011 valid signature and needed 42902. It sounded like over 80,000 signatures had been handed in. At one point, the pro-recall group said they need (or needed -- I'm not clear) to raise $150,000 to get the petitioners to hand it in. This appears to be a separate group handing in the signatures that raise the total to 80,000. It is not clear how that worked.

Three legislators have asked the Attorney General for an investigation into White. White has accused one legislator of illegally using staff to help with the recall. 

The recall is estimated to cost $2 million, though frequently those numbers change. 

Oregon: House Representative facing petitions

Oregon House Representative Cyrus Javadi (R) is facing a  recall threat led by a former conservative supporter. The focus appears to be Javadi's support for a bill on access for library books and LGBTQ+ issues. 

Petitioners would need over 5400 signatures (15% of gubernatorial turnout) by September 24.

Texas: Signatures handed in against La Marque Councilmember

Signatures have been handled in against La Marque Councilmember Joseph Lowry. Petitioners handed in 268 signatures and need 191. 

The claim is misconduct that includes multiple city council censures over harassment. Lowry previously led recall efforts in 2022 against Mayor Keith Bell and Councilmember Kimberley Yancy. The recall effort against Bell went to the ballot, though he survived the vote. 

Arizona: Mesa Councilmember recall makes the ballot, set for November 4th

The recall election against Mesa Council member Julie Spilsbury has made the ballot, and will be held on November 4 (apparently tied in with the general election.

The stated issues were a vote to convert a hotel to an emergency homeless shelter and earlier votes for raises for elected officials and an increase in utility rates. 

Spilsbury, a Republican who endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, has stated that the effort is a partisan move by conservatives, and the leader of the effort was backed by Turning Point USA. Petitioners also mentioned transgender and DEI issues.

Petitioners handed in over 5235 signatures in the recall effort and got 3858 valid. They needed 3070 valid signatures.

The last council recall was almost 50 years ago.

Monday, June 30, 2025

California: Stockton Mayor facing recall threats

Stockton Mayor Christina Fugazi is facing recall threats over issues of a city manager search and claims of Brown Act violations. Fugazi wished the proposed petitioners good luck, noting her performance in the last election.

Petitioners would need about 17000 signatures to get on the ballot.

Sunday, June 29, 2025

Nebraska: Petitions taken out against Valley Mayor and City Council President

Petitions have been taken out against Valley Mayor Cindy Grove and Council President John Batcher over a kitchen sink of complaints such as violations of open meeting laws. 

Petitioners needed 689 signatures for Grove and 367 for Batcher in 30 days.

Nebraska: Scotts Bluff Commissioner recall makes the ballot

The recall of Scotts Bluff County Commissioner Charlie Knapper has made the ballot. The recall is over alleged issues with a county employee. Knapper says the recall is over unregulated solar farms, opposition to sports tourism and older officials.

Petitioners handed in 710 valid signatures and needed 595.

Colorado: Recall of Creede Mayor and Board Trustee makes the ballot

The recall effort against Creede Mayor Jeffrey Larson and Board Trustee Lori Dooley has made the ballot. 

The issues seem to be a town manager employment agreement (who did not live in the town), a water and sewer rate increase; and complaints about a lack of participation at meeting.

Petitioners handed in 55 signatures for Larson, 37 were validated and 25 were needed. 55 were handed in for Dooley, with 44 valids and 32 needed.

Thursday, June 26, 2025

Ballotpedia reports drop in recall attempts for first half of 2025

Ballotpedia is reporting that the first half of 2025 has the lowest number of recall attempts since 2020, a year that in the end had a fairly standard number of recall attempts (though, due to COVID, a significant drop in those that made the ballot). One fact to note is that odd number years usually see a drop in recalls. I discuss that phenomena here in 2019:

This see-sawing does fit with a general pattern. Recalls are more likely in the even numbered national election years (presidential or Congress), rather than in the odd numbered years. This may seem somewhat counterintuitive (as some of these officials are facing the voters that year anyway), but there are practical reasons. I’ve mentioned these before, but here it is again:


  1. The lock-up or grace periods – many jurisdictions have a period where officials are exempt from facing a recall or (in some cases) even having petitions taken out against them. This period can range from three months to a year after their term begins (which is usually in January). Since so many officials are elected in even-year elections, there is less chance to get a recall on the ballot.
     
  2. Consolidation – states are frequently required to consolidate recalls with the next primary or general election, thereby obviating the need and expense of a special election. Michigan, one of the leading recall states, changed its law in 2012 to consolidate elections. The result is that a number of recalls are pushed off until 2020.
  3. Operator error -- I'm fairly certain that I missed recalls. I've compared it to other available sources (the good people at Ballotpedia have done an excellent job of compiling data), but there is no question that recalls are not being counted. However, I like to think that I've at least maintained my existing level of incompetency, and any errors this year would probably be roughly the same as last year.
  4. Paywalls -- Newspapers and websites are increasingly behind paywalls. Local sites that are critical to doing this research (there is no state or local governmental reporting) on recalls seem to be failing at an increased rate. I think the closing off of the web may make it harder to see recalls and reports of recalls. I can't say that it is the real factor though.
One factor that I had previously considered is that there was a drop-off in political interest and enthusiasm in off-years. While this is possibly, I do find it somewhat unlikely in our current political climate.

Missouri: Petitioners move closer to recall of Jackson County Executive/All-Star Royals 2nd Baseman

The signature totals for Jackson County Executive Frank White -- (yes, the Royals former All-Star 2nd Baseman), is creeping closer to success, as the board has verified 42,671 signatures, They need 42,902 valids to get on the ballot.

It sounds like over 80,000 signatures have been handed in, though no word on how many have been rejected.  

At one point, the pro-recall group said they need (or needed -- I'm not clear) to raise $150,000 to get the petitioners to hand it in. This appears to be a separate group handing in the signatures that raise the total to 80,000. It is not clear how that worked.

The recall is over complaints that property taxes are going up between 30% - 400%. There is a complaint that White's salary went up 7%. A recall was threatened last year as well. White says that it was over his vote against a Stadium, and the leaders of the petition (who owe $150,000 for polling), are contractors who wanted a yes vote.

Three legislators have asked the Attorney General for an investigation into White

Ohio: Cleveland Height Mayor recall makes the ballot

The recall of Cleveland Heights Mayor Kahlil Seren has made the ballot, with petitioners getting 3845 valid signatures. They needed 2900. Approximately 500 were invalidated. The recall would be held on be September 9, the same day as the primary.

It was previously announced that Seren had failed to make the ballot for a reelection race,  he needed 342 signatures but was 39 short (a number of petitioners had signed other petitions as well). 

The recall is over claims that his wife has allegedly made numerous anti-Semitic comments against city employees and other officials and a civil rights complaint filed against him. Seren is also being faulted for a high turnover rate and failed budget process.

Oregon: Deschutes County Sheriff resigns in face of recall effort

Deschutes County Sheriff Kent van der Kamp has resigned in the face of a recall effort. 

Petitioners, who seem to be deputies in the office, are unhappy with the delayed time-frame of the resignation (which would be July 31st). The recall was over claims of abuse of authority and misconduct.


Arkansas: Helena West-Helena Mayor facing petitions

Helena-West Helena Mayor Christopher Franklin Sr. is facing a recall effort over his arrest and charges of failing to file taxes in four of the past five years. 

The City Council has called for his resignation over a  "profanity-laden video call" between members that went viral. 

Not sure how many signatures are needed to get the recall on the ballot.

Monday, June 23, 2025

Kenya: Senators debating adopting recall law

Here (alas, behind a paywall).

Colorado: Loveland Councilmember recall makes the ballot

The recall effort against Loveland Councilmember Erin Black appears to have made the ballot, with petitioners handing in over 1322 valids. No word on scheduling yet. 

The recall was over a confrontation in the park (though it does not sound like it was physical -- though one of the video has claims about it. It's really not clear from the story). The Police Chief also claimed that he was discriminated against by Black.

The council is calling for her resignation.

Loveland has had a good deal of recall efforts recently.

Update: Black is contesting the petitions.

Friday, June 20, 2025

Texas: Recalls of three Kingsville Commissioners makes the ballot

The recall effort against three Kingsville City Commissioners, Norma Nelda Alvarez, Hector Hinojosa and Leo Alarcon, has made the ballot. 

The recall seems to be over a battle last year between the commissioners and the mayor over who would serve as mayor pro tem. 

No word on all the numbers, but in one case, petitioners handed in 292 valids and needed 282.

Taiwan: Recalls against 24 legislators and Hsinchu Mayor makes the July 26th ballot

The Taiwan recall fight is now a go, as recalls against 24 legislators from the Kuomintang Party, as well as Hsinchu Mayor Ann Kao will face an election on July 26. The mass recall campaign was launched by the Democratic Progressive Party against 41 members of the Kuomintang and Taiwan People's Party, and the DPP faced numerous recalls, leading to efforts against 79 legislators. Two efforts against DPP members are oustanding.

The recalls started after the KMT passed laws targeting the Constitutional Court, the budget and looking to change the recall act itself

The Kao recall is suspended following a corruption investigation.

Here's an editorial looking into what the numbers mean, including the fact that the KMT need to lose more than 6 seats to lose their majority.

Thursday, June 19, 2025

Wisconsin: DeForest Village Board member facing recall effort

DeForest Village Board Member Bill Landgraf over his opposition to fluoride in the water.

Petititoners need about 1400 signatures by July 17 and claim they have 500. 


Colorado: Jackson County Sheriff ousted

Jackson County Sheriff Jarrod Poley was kicked out in a recall vote on June 17.  The recall took place after the sheriff arrested a high school principal in front of the school for not divulging information about a student. 66% was against Poley, though hopefully we'll have fuller details later.

Poley faced a recall effort in 2023

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Texas: Houston Mayor recall effort set to start in fall

The lead petitioners for the recall effort against Houston Mayor John Whitmire (D) has said that they are planning on kicking off a campaign in the fall. 

The recall is over general complaints about incompetence, but seems to be focused on the specific policy issue seems to be a water plan.

Petitioners need about 63,000 signatures in 30 days (25% of turnout). The article notes that they are shooting for 64,000 signatures, but perhaps something is lost in translation there, as that would require an extremely unlikely success rate.

Florida: Fort Myers Beach councilmembers are approved for reimbusement

The Fort Myers Town Council has agreed (as provided for by Florida law) to reimburse Fort Myers Beach Councilmembers John King and Karen Woodson over a recall effort. The recall is over claims of unreported gifts for land use approvals from a developer (seemingly a meal), a debate over who would replace a town attorney and violation of the Sunshine laws. Fort Myers has a malfeasance standard, so a judge will probably weigh in here. 

Former councilmembers Ray Murphy and Bill Veach are leading the effort and have hit the first hurdle of 10% of signatures. Petitioners would need 25% of voters (which seems like between 700-800) within 60 days.  

Note that Vice Mayor Jim Atterholt is quotes as saying that the recall process "encourages slander, defamation and innuendo and those being recalled are guilty until proven innocents."

Taiwan: Five KMT associates charged with forging signatures

Five people connected with the Kuomintang (KMT) Party are facing charges over forging signatures for the recall of two Democratic Progressive Party lawmakers. 

The charged individuals are accused of fabricating 5211 signatures. 

Illinois: Further push on recall law for mayor

Here's more on the new push for allowing a recall law for mayor.

Ohio: Cleveland Height Mayor fails to make ballot for reelection, still facing recall efforts

New developments here in the Cleveland Heights Mayor Kahlil Seren recall effort. Seren has failed to make the ballot for a reelection race,  he needed 342 but was 39 short (a number of petitioners had signed other petitions as well). However, Seren is still facing a recall effort over claims that his wife has allegedly made numerous anti-Semitic comments against city employees and other officials and a civil rights complaint filed against him. Seren is also being faulted for a high turnover rate and failed budget process. 

Petitioners need about 2900 signatures to get on the ballot (25% of turnout). If a recall is held, it would be September 9, the same day as the primary.

Alaska: Recall effort started against nine Kenai Peninsula School Board members

Petitioners are being taken out against nine Kenai Peninsula School Board Members, Zen Kelly, Jason Tauriainen, Virginia Morgan, Penny Vadla, Tim Daugharty, Patti Truesdell, Sarah Douthit, Kelley Cizek and Dianne MacRae. 

The recall is over complaints about a proposed health clinic at a high school. The first set of petitions were rejected because they focused on the school superintendent. The leader of the recall, Jeanne Reveal, ran and lost for a seat on the school board last year.

Sunday, June 15, 2025

Alaska: North Slope Borough Mayor recall fails

The recall effort against North Slope Borough Mayor Josiah Aullaqsruaq Patkotak has failed, with petitioners handing in 153 signatures (and needing 371). Petitioners are claiming that the county made changes to the petitions and delayed it. 

No word on the recall effort against North Slope Borough Assembly President Crawford Patkotak, who is the father of the mayor.

The recalls were over complaints over allegedly misusing funds for travel expenses for the mayor's family. The President allegedly did not disclose a personal interest when approving compensation for travel.

Apparently, the salary for the position of the Mayor is over $280,000. 

In 2016, a previous Mayor, Charlotte Brower, was kicked out with a recall for sending her grandchildren to a basketball camp in California, among other issues.

Saturday, June 14, 2025

California: Recall effort launched against Mountain View Whisman School Board member

A recall attempt has been launched against Mountain View Whisman School Board member Devon Conley. The issue according to petitioners is complaints about cost and spending, including executive leadership coaching and mediation sessions and the resignation of the Superintendent. There was also a battle over tax revenue with the city.

It seems like petitioners would need about 7,931 signatures to get on the ballot.

Friday, June 13, 2025

Maine: Hartford Councilmember ousted

Hartford Councilwoman Kathleen Landry was kicked out 219-187. The recall was over claims of harassment and incivility. 

California: Petitions taken out against two San Benito County Supervisors

San Benito County Supervisors Kollin Kosmicki and Ignacio Velasquez are facing recall efforts over complaints about the city of Hollister's fire services contract and the county's finances. Kosmicki claims that the recall is over their opposition to housing growth policies. 

Former Hollister Councilmember Rick Perez and former County Planning Commissioner Celeste Toledo-Bocanegra are leading the recall effort. 

Petitioners need 1736 signatures for Kosmicki and 1833 for Velasquez.

Velasquez previously faced a recall effort in 2021 (led by Toledo-Bocanegra), though it did not get to the ballot.

Maine: Dexter School Board members ousted

Dexter School Board Members Judy Saunders (382-186) and Alisha Ames (387-131) were ousted in June 10th recall votes. are facing the voters on June 10th. The pro-recall group is called "Stop the Power Trip!" The group complains about conflict of interest including Ames' involvement/leadership of a homeschool co-op (where's she's the pastor) and that Saunders' daughter works in the district.

Petitioners handed in 363 signatures against Ames and 350 for Saunders. They needed 296.

Sunday, June 8, 2025

Washington: Sunnyside Councilmembers facing recall threats

There are threats against Sunnyside Councilmember Theresa Hancock over complaints about her practices. The recall effort started after the council placed the City Manager on leave in a 5-2 vote.

Colorado: Three Palmer Lake Mayor resigns

Palmer Lake Mayor Glant Havenar resigned in the face of a recall effort, though no word on the recall effort against Trustees Shana Ball, Kevin Dreher and Dennis Stern. Havenar had a six month grace period, such petitions hadn't been taken out yet.

The issue appears to be the construction of a travel center (Buc-ee's restaurant) on the highway, with the land annexed to the town. The complaint seems to be about traffic, though the article notes a significant amount of fighting within the town over the subject.

Wednesday, June 4, 2025

Arizona: Signatures handed in against Mesa Councilmember

Petitioners handed in over 5235 signatures in the recall effort against Mesa Council member Julie Spilsbury (though apparently 5092 have been verified as handed in).

The stated issues were a vote to convert a hotel to an emergency homeless shelter and earlier votes for raises for elected officials and an increase in utility rates. 

Spilsbury, a Republican who endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, has stated that the effort is a partisan move by conservatives. Petitioners also mentioned transgender and DEI issues.

Petitioners need 3070 valid signatures.

Idaho: Caldwell recall effort fails

No signatures were handed in for the recall of Caldwell Mayor Jarom Wagoner and City Councilmember Geoff Williams, Chris Allgood, Mike Dittenberg and Brad Doty. Petitioners needed 4982 signatures. 

The recall was over the approval of hotel which led to demonstrations for "Save the Dirt Lot." The site is currently used for event parking. There are also complaints about parking meters and the council's approval of the police chief. 

City Council members sent a cease-and-desist letter to the lead petitioner in the recall against  demanding that he stop calling them a "crime family." The petitioner claims the reference is to a conviction for a councilmember's wife for misusing funds two decades ago.

Sunday, June 1, 2025

Washington: Online petition seeks recall of Governor

An online petition has been launched for the recall of Washington Governor Bob Ferguson over the passage of the budget. 

The petition has 37,000 signatures, though none of them count at all. Petitioners would also have to get past the malfeasance standard stage, which this almost certain wouldn't meet. 

Ohio: Cleveland Height Mayor facing recall efforts

Petitions have been taken out against Cleveland Heights Mayor Kahlil Seren, whose wife has allegedly made anti-Semitic comments against city employees and other officials and a civil rights complaint filed against him. Seren is also being faulted for a high turnover rate and failed budget process. 

Petitioners need about 2900 signatures to get on the ballot (25% of turnout). 

Seren is also running for reelection. 

Friday, May 30, 2025

California: San Francisco Supervisor recall scheduled for September 16

The recall election of San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio has made the ballot and is scheduled for September 16. Petitioners handed in 10,985 signatures, with 10.523 valid. They needed 9911. 

The validity rate was 95.8%. It's not clear why they did a full count. They previously announced a 99,3% validity rate, when they checked 549 checked signature using the randomg sampling method. That would suggest that they didn't need to check each one. 

Petitioners handed supposedly collected over 14000, which appears to mean that they did a great job of checking them over (they may have handed in another 300 additional ones).

Here's my last look at signature verification rates for other large recall events.

The recall is over the Engardio's support for the passage of Prop. K, which will lead to a new park and the closing of the Great Highway. 

Proposition K passed with 56% of the vote, but in Engardio's district, the vote was 63.7% opposed, so real risk. 

The lead petition resigned from the role over debates about spending -- reportedly, the campaign has spent over $100,000 for signature collection and is looking to put in some more, though they are in debt. Engardio has a 4-1 advantage in funds. 

Sunday, May 25, 2025

California: San Francisco Supervisor recall appears to make the ballot, with 99.3% verification rate

The recall effort against San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio appears to have made the ballot, with an incredible 99.3% of the 549 checked signatures verified (in the randomg sampling method -- so 4 of 549). Petitioners handed in 10,700 signatures  though supposedly they collected over 14000, which appears to mean that they did a great job of checking them over (they may have handed in another 300 additional ones). They need 9911 and under the sampling, they would get 10,525. 

Here's my last look at signature verification rates for other large recall events.

The recall is over the Engardio's support for the passage of Prop. K, which will lead to a new park and the closing of the Great Highway. 

Proposition K passed with 56% of the vote, but in Engardio's district, the vote was 63.7% opposed, so real risk. 

The lead petition resigned from the role over debates about spending -- reportedly, the campaign has spent over $100,000 for signature collection and is looking to put in some more, though they are in debt. Engardio has a 4-1 advantage in funds. 

Alaska: Palmer Mayor recall survives recall vote

Palmer Mayor Steve Carrington survived a recall vote 222-176 after 202 other ballot counted (Palmer trailed 99-97 on Election Day. Turnout was about 8%. 

The recall appears to be over over a $75K severance payment to a city manager who served for 53 days. The complaint is focused on Open Meeting Act violations.

Three Palmer City Councilmembers were kicked out in a recall in 2022. The lead petitioner against the three councilmembers is also leading the effort against Carrington. Carrington was elected in 2022, but served for a decade on the council. 

Friday, May 23, 2025

California: Signatures handed in against San Francisco Supervisor

Petitioners have handed in 10,700 signatures for the recall effort against San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio, though supposedly they collected over 14000, which could mean that they feel they done a better job of checking them over. They need 9911, so this could be close.

They will use a random sampling method (I explain it here), where they will check 5% -- or 595. Here's my last look at signature verification rates.

The recall is over the Engardio's support for the passage of Prop. K, which will lead to a new park and the closing of the Great Highway. 

Proposition K passed with 56% of the vote, but in Engardio's district, the vote was 63.7% opposed, so real risk. 

Petitioners need about 9400 signatures by late May.

The lead petition resigned from the role over debates about spending -- reportedly, the campaign has spent over $100,000 for signature collection and is looking to put in some more, though they are in debt. Engardio has a 4-1 advantage in funds. 

Florida: Cape Coral Mayor facing petitions

Cape Coral Mayor John Gunter is facing a recall effort over a vote to turn over part of a creek preserve into a water and pumping facility. He also is facing criticism for an alleged $60,000 stipend that was proposed in the past.

Petitioners need 7000 signatures (5%) in 30 days to clear the first stage and then have 60 days to get 15% of voters -- so perhaps 21000? The stories don't seem to explain it. 

Thursday, May 22, 2025

Alaska: Palmer Mayor recall super close with ballots still to be counted

Very close race in the recall against Palmer Mayor Steve Carrington, who is currently losing 99-97, with another 193 ballots to be counted.

The recall appears to be over over a $75K severance payment to a city manager who served for 53 days. The complaint is focused on Open Meeting Act violations.

Three Palmer City Councilmembers were kicked out in a recall in 2022. The lead petitioner against the three councilmembers is also leading the effort against Carrington. Carrington was elected in 2022, but served for a decade on the council. 

Colorado: Mountain View Councilmember ousted

Mountain View Councilman Brent John Metz was ousted in a recall, l127-72, and was replaced by Ryan Debner. Metz is accused of shooting a teen in the face and faces assault (and other) charges. Two teens were allegedly looking for a place to take homecoming pictures. 

Wednesday, May 21, 2025

Rhode Island: Westerly Town Council President facing petitions

Petitions have been taken out against Westerly Town Council President Chris Duhamel. The recall is over a suit about a right of way and access to a beach. The article mentions that they need 20% of turnout, though it seems that voters cast ballots for multiple officials (somewhere near 13000 voted in the presidential. They have 45 days. 

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

Wisconsin: DeForest Village Trustee facing petitions

DeForest Village Trustee Bill Landgraf is facing petitions over a vote to remove fluoride and claims of unprofessional and intimidating behavior. Landgraf is accused of reporting misconduct against a dental hygienist who opposed him on social media. Petitioners need 1392 signatures in 60 days. 

Montana: Petitions taken out against Hill County Commissioner

Petitions have been taken out against Hill County Commissioner Sheri Williams over claims of an hostile environment. Williams was censured by the other two commissioners and has faced complaints over a senior meal program. Montana is a malfeasance standard/judicial recall state and there does need to be a showing of cause for the recall to move forward.

Petitioners need about 2000 signatures, 700 of which have to be from Williams' district, by August 12. 

Friday, May 16, 2025

Maine: Dexter School Board members facing recall vote on June 10th

Dexter School Board Members Judy Saunders and Alisha Ames are facing the voters on June 10th. The pro-recall group is called "Stop the Power Trip!" The group complains about conflict of interest including Ames' involvement with a homeschool co-op and that Saunders' daughter works in the district.

Petitioners handed in 363 signatures against Ames and 350 for Saunders. They need 296.

Nebraska: Harvard Mayoral recall cancelled due to grace period

A recall effort against Harvard Mayor Nathanael Brown scheduled for June 10 has been cancelled, as the mayor has a 6th month grace period at the start of the term (which was September 16, 2024) and petitions were handed in in January. Don't see anything about what the recall is about. 

Louisiana: Petitions taken out against St. Bernard Parish President

St. Bernard Parish President Louis Pomes is facing petitions over his support for a bill that would allow the Port of New Orleans to construct a road connecting the International Terminal to the highway.  He opposed the bill HB 616 in the campaign,

Petitioners need 5451 signatures by November 11.

Texas: Balch Springs Councilmember facing petitions

Balch Springs Councilmember Paula Garcia over claims of misconduct. The leader of the effort, Jess Reaka, is a former Parks & Recreation advisory board member who was removed due to social media posts and does not live in the district. 

Petitioners need 54 signatures (50% of turnout) in 30 days.

Missouri: Petitioners hand in additional 20K signatures for recall of Jackson County Executive/All-Star Royals 2nd Baseman

Petitioners have handed in another 20,000 signatures, on top of the claimed 60,000 signatures for the recall of Jackson County Executive Frank White -- (yes, the Royals former All-Star 2nd Baseman). It sounds like over 80,000 have been handed in, though this has been an odd recall effort. 

Previously, the group said they need (or needed -- I'm not clear) to raise $150,000 to get the petitioners to hand it in. This appears to be a separate group handing in the signatures that raise the total to 80,000. It is not clear how that worked.

The recall is over complaints that property taxes are going up between 30% - 400%. There is a complaint that White's salary went up 7%. A recall was threatened last year as well. White says that it was over his vote against a Stadium, and the leaders of the petition (who owe $150,000 for polling), are contractors who wanted a yes vote.

Three legislators have asked the Attorney General for an investigation into White

Petitioners would need 42,902 valids to get on the ballot.

California: Lead petitioner quits role in recall effort against San Francisco Supervisor

The lead petitioner in the recall effort against San Francisco Supervisor Joel Engardio has resigned from the role over debates about spending -- reportedly, the campaign has spent over $100,000 for signature collection and is looking to put in some more, though they are in debt. Engardio has a 4-1 advantage in funds. 

The recall was over the passage of Prop. K, which will lead to a new park and the closing of the Great Highway. 

Proposition K passed with 56% of the vote, but in Engardio's district, the vote was 63.7% opposed, so real risk. 

Petitioners need about 9400 signatures by late May.

Articles have noted that Engardio was a big supporter of the recall of San Francisco District Attorney Chesa Boudin (who is a constituent of Engardio and says he will vote against the recall). 

Idaho: Caldwell Mayor and City Councilmembers send cease-and-desist letter to petitioner over comments

City Council members have sent a cease-and-desist letter to the lead petitioner in the recall against Caldwell Mayor Jarom Wagoner and City Councilmember Geoff Williams, Chris Allgood, Mike Dittenberg and Brad Doty demanding that he stop calling them a "crime family." The petitioner claims the reference is to a conviction for a councilmember's wife for misusing funds two decades ago.

The recall is over the approval of hotel which led to demonstrations for "Save the Dirt Lot." The site is currently used for event parking. There are also complaints about parking meters and the council's approval of the police chief. 

Petitioner would need 20% of signatures, which appears to be 5000, from registered voters in 75 days.

Thursday, May 15, 2025

Washington: Recall effort against Mabton Mayor fails due to end of term grace period

The recall effort against Mabton Mayor Rachel Ruelas seems to have failed, as signatures were handed in days after the six month end of term grace period (they needed to be in by the 4th, but were in on the 12th). 

The failed recall was recently approved by the Washington Supreme Court, which upheld (6-3) the judicially approved recall petition. The court ruled that she failed to meet the deadline. Washington is a malfeasance standard state and judges usually toss out recall efforts as not meeting the statutorily delineated reasons for a recall.  

The recall effort came after the former city clerk was accused of allowing her boyfriend to abscond with $22K in checks and cash from the city. There also has been no access to two council agendas or eight recording of meetings. Council members have not seen the budget and there has been trouble with live-streaming meetings. 

Petitioners needed 59 signatures in 90 days. 

Note that one of the articles notes that recalls are not allowed to be held at the same time as the November general election, which is the opposite of how most states work. I'm not sure about how this works -- it does set dates for local elections and says recalls are excepted.  It does specify that recalls can't be held between a primary and general election date. However, it could make the April ballot.

Arizona: Signatures handed in against Nogales Councilmember

Signatures have been handed in against Nogales City Councilmember Saulo Bonilla over allegations  of a pattern of aggressive behavior, specifically to women. He is facing disorderly conduct charges (beyond the current complaint). Petitioners handed in 397 signatures and need 339.

Wednesday, May 14, 2025

Maryland: Salisbury Mayor facing recall threats

Salisbury Mayor Randy Taylor is facing recall threats on social media. It seems to have to do with housing projects, though it's no one has yet acknowledged being behind the effort. One of the social media posts also notes that the City Manager left the job. 

Petitioners would need about 1577 signatures in 90 days.

Colorado: Woodland Park Councilmember resigns after recall makes the ballot

The only one of the four recall of the Woodland Park Councilmembers to get on the ballot, Carrol Harvey, has resigned before the vote.  The recalls was over a vote to repeal the city sales tax that sends $3M to the School District.  The Councilmembers complain that there is no itemization of moneys spent. The city voters previously shot down an attempt to get rid of the sales tax.

The recall effort against three other members failed. The ones against Jeffrey Geer and Steve Smith failed earlier.  

The recall effort against Councilmember Catherine Nakai had 627 were handed in and 507 validated. They needed 577. 

Petitioners handed in 755 signatures against Harvey, 630 were validated. They needed 577.

Petitioners handed in 755 signatures against Harvey, 630 were validated. They needed 577. Petitioners needed 721 for Geer and Smith. They got 657 for Geer and 649 for Smith. The reason for the difference in numbers is that Geer and Smith were elected in 2024 (a presidential election year) while Nakai and Harvey's seat (Harvey was appointed to fill a vacancy) was the lower turnout 2022 midterm. 

No word on the recall effort against Councilmember Terri Baldwin, was also targeted, but signatures were not turned in.


Canada: Alberta MLAs targeted in recall reffort

Alberta MLAs, Demetrios Nicolaides, Rajan Sawhney from the United Conservative Party have been targeted in a recall effort, both of them won in very close races over NDP candidates. There are also threats against Premier Danielle Smith and other cabinet members. 

Monday, May 12, 2025

Florida: New law attacks signature gathering efforts for initiatives

Florida has adopted a law cracking down on volunteer collecting for signature efforts. Not sure how this would impact recalls (as opposed to initiatives), but it does require background checks and training for a volunteer to collect more than 25 signatures from non-family members.

Non-recall op-ed in the Washington Examiner on third terms

Here's my Washington Examiner op-ed on the difficult of officials seeking third terms.  I don't always share the non-recall op-eds, but I think the look at how governors' support falls off in a race for a third term might be worth a look.

California: Capitola Councilmember resigns in face of recall effort

Capitola Vice Mayor Alexander Pedersen resigned in the face of a recall effort. Pedersen said that he moved out of the city after a "campaign of legal harassment and intimidation."

The lead petitioners seemed to have filed some ethical complaints, the reason seems to be his support for costal rail trail project (and a bike path on that project). Pedersen was also on the Santa Cruz County Regional Transportation Commission, which he is leaving as well. 

Friday, May 9, 2025

California: Blue Lake Mayor and two councilmembers targeted in recall effort

Blue Lake Mayor John Sawatzky, Mayor Pro Tem Elise Scafani and Councilmember Kat Napier are all facing recall efforts following the removal of the City Manager. Her support for a development project seemed to be one of the issues with the manager. 

Petitioners need about 252 signatures to get the recall on the ballot. An ex-mayor (who lost by a coin flip) seems to be one of the leaders of the recall effort.

Massachusetts: Dalton adopts recall law at town meeting

Dalton voters approved a recall law at the annual town meeting on May 5 (though unsure of the vote). Petitioners would need 50 percent of turnout in 20 days, and there is an absentee veto, meaning that the vote total must exceed 80 percent of the votes cast in the most recent town election. 

The recall occurs as town leadership has faced attacks with a town rejection of the police budget. 

Thursday, May 8, 2025

Colorado: Recall effort against Pueblo Mayor fails

The recall effort against Pueblo Mayor Heather Graham has failed. Petitioners needed 6300 signatures and claim they gathered 3046 unverified. 

The recall was about complaints of removing nonprofit funding, retaliation against opposition and spending too much time on social media during council meetings. 

Colorado: One of three Woodland Park Councilmembers makes the ballot; Signatures handed in for fourth member

Only one of three recalls against Woodland Park Councilmembers made the ballot, with Carrol Harvey (who needed the least amount of signatures) set to face the voters. The recall effort against Jeffrey Geer and Steve Smith both failed. 

Signatures have also been turned in against Councilmember Catherine Nakai -- 627 were handed in, they need 577. 

Petitioners handed in 755 signatures against Harvey, 630 were validated. They needed 577. Petitioners needed 721 for Geer and Smith. They got 657 for Geer and 649 for Smith. The reason for the difference in numbers is that Geer and Smith were elected in 2024 (a presidential election year) while Nakai and Harvey's seat (Harvey was appointed to fill a vacancy) was the lower turnout 2022 midterm. 

No word on the recall effort against Councilmember Terri Baldwin, was also targeted, but signatures were not turned in.

The recall is over a vote to repeal the city sales tax that sends $3M to the School District.  The Councilmembers complain that there is no itemization of moneys spent. The city voters previously shot down an attempt to get rid of the sales tax.

Wednesday, May 7, 2025

Washington: Camas City Council member recall effort moves forward

The recall effort against Camas City Council John Svilarich is moving forward, with a judge greenlighting the effort under Washington's malfeasance standard.. Svilarich was arrested on criminal assault and reckless endangerment charges, after an argument over the disposal of a cigarette butt led to a rock throwing and a gun being pulled. 

Among the lead petitioners are Svilarich's opponent in the last election, a losing mayoral candidate and the husband of one of the other councilors.

Monday, May 5, 2025

Alaska: Palmer Mayor's op-ed opposing recall effort

Here's an op-ed by Palmer Mayor Steve Carrington arguing against his May 20th recall. The recall appears to be over over a $75K severance payment to a city manager who served for 53 days. The complaint is focused on Open Meeting Act violations. Carrington argues that this recall doesn't meet the malfeasance standard. 

Three Palmer City Councilmembers were kicked out in a recall in 2022. The lead petitioner against the three councilmembers is also leading the effort against Carrington. Carrington was elected in 2022, but served for a decade on the council. Petitioners need about 58 signatures (25% of turnout -- though perhaps it requires all signers to have voted) in 90 days to get on the ballot.

Petitioners needed 71 signatures. No word on how many they got.

Taiwan: Signatures handed in against two legislators

Signatures have been handed in against Kuomintang legislators Hung Mong-Kai and Yeh Yuan-chih, with petitioners handing in 50,592 and 32,000 respectively. 

Nigeria: Op-ed on Nigeria's recall law

Here is my op-ed in the Nigerian Premium Times looking at how the country's recall law compares to others throughout the world. This comes after the recall effort against Nigerian Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Massachusetts: Dalton to decide on whether to adopt recall law

Dalton voters are going to decide at the annual town meeting on May 5 whether to adopt a recall law. Petitioners would need 50 percent of turnout in 20 days, and there is an absentee veto, meaning that the vote total must exceed 80 percent of the votes cast in the most recent town election. 

Texas: Killeen Councilmember ousted in recall vote

An end to the odd saga of the Killeen recalls, with Councilmember Michael Boyd ousted 317-264. Boyd had previously dropped out of his reelection run. The recall has had made the ballot and was scheduled for May 3, 2025, the same day as his reelection race (which unfortunately prevents us from getting that comparison. 

The recall seems to be part of an ongoing fight. which led to recall efforts against numerous officials, though the petitioner mentions (among many other things) a vote in favor of a new City Hall and a meeting with developers for which a disclosure form was not filed as well as violations of the First and Second Amendment. The petition itself seems to be a vague kitchen sink, with claims of failing to "listen to the citizens"; Violations of the "code of conduct" and "failure to meet primary standards and "abusing tax dollars."

Petitioners handed in 341 signatures and 218 were verified (50% of registereds). They needed 202.

The recall against three other councilmembers failed after the petitioner claimed to have shredded the pages. The recall effort against Councilmember Jessica Gonzalez failed. They handed in 270 and needed 246 (50% of registereds). No word on how many were rejected. 


ed to recall Boyd by 317 to 264 or 54.5% to 45.4%

Florida: Petitions taken out against two Fort Myers Beach councilmembers

Petitions have been taken out against Fort Myers Beach Councilmembers John King and Karen Woodson over claims of unreported gifts for land use approvals from a developer (seemingly a meal), a debate over who would replace a town attorney and violation of the Sunshine laws. Fort Myers has a malfeasance standard, so a judge will probably weigh in here. 

Former councilmembers Ray Murphy and Bill Veach are leading the effort. Petitioners would need 25% of voters (which seems like between 700-800). 

Nebraska: Fort Calhoun Mayor recall effort fails

No signatures were handed in for the recall of Fort Calhoun Mayor Mitch Robinson. The recall is over his support a plan to lease outdoor gun range space to Omaha's Police Department. There is already a recall vote to remove that specific provision. 

California: Petitions taken out against four Grossmont School Board Members

Petitions have been taken out against four Grossmont Union High School District Board Members, Scott Eckert, James Kelly, Robert Shield and Gary Woods. The recall is over 61 layoffs after a $2.5 million budget deficit. Petitioners also claim that the three, who are politically conservative, have profited from private schools. 

Three of the members have been on the board for over 10 years.  

Petitioners need over 10,000 signatures per board member.

Update: Petitioners are focused on Eckert and are claiming that staffers have been targeted due to personal, religious and political beliefs.

Texas: Gonzales Councilmember ousted

Gonzales City Councilmember Ronda Miller was ousted in May 3rd recall, 216-161, which took place on a general election day. The recall was over a general claim of incompetence. Don't see any other reasons mentioned in any story.

There was a significant debate as to whether Miller could vote in the council to schedule the recall (it passed 2-1, so presumably, if she voted it would have failed). The City Attorney noted that she was barred from casting a vote. 

Petitioners handed in 313 signatures and got 276 valids. They needed 260.

Miller seems to be pushing a focus on a lack of grounds in the petition. Her attorney claims the city uses a malfeasance standard and that is not met here. 

Colorado: Signatures handed in against three Woodland Park Councilmembers

Signatures have been handed in against three Woodland Park Councilmembers Jeffrey Geer, Carrol Harvey and Steve Smith over a vote to repeal the city sales tax. The complaint is that the sales tax sends $3M to the School District.  The Councilmembers complain that there is no itemization of moneys spent. The city voters previously shot down an attempt to get rid of the sales tax.

A fourth councilmember, Terri Baldwin, was also targeted, but no word on why signatures were not turned in.

Not clear how many signatures were turned in, but petitioners need 721 signatures (and 577 for Harvey).  

Canada: Alberta Premier looks to lower recall requirements

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith (UCP) is looking to change the recall requirements for MLAs. Among the proposals would be lower the beginning of the term grace period from 18 months to 12 months after election; increasing the signature collection time period from 60 to 90 days and decreasing the required signatures from 40 percent of registered voters to 60 percent of turnout (which is invariably lower).

California: Los Angeles Mayor calls recall effort "rite of passage"

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass is calling the recall effort a "rite of passage." There hasn't been any update on how many signatures have been collected. 

Oklahoma: Bartlesville Council member facing petitions

Petitions have been taken out against Bartlesville City Council member Tim Sherrick over claims that he questioned the faith of the mayor.  Sherrick claims that a former councilmember is leading the efforts for a splinter group of Republicans.

The recall will not get to a ballot before September 9th. Petitioners are looking to collect 1000 signatures, though it is not clear how many are needed.

Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Taiwan: KMT Chair calls for recall of President

Following a huge protest and the massive amount of recall efforts against Kuomintang (KMT) officials, the KMT Chair Eric Chu is now calling for President Lai Ching-te to face a recall effort, though there is no chance it will move forward.. 

Lai cannot be recalled in the first year (so that would start on May 20). The petition would need 1/4th of the legislators to sign on, and then the vote of 2/3rds to move forward

Virginia: Signatures handed in against four Purcellville officials

Signatures have been turned in against Purcellville Mayor Christopher Bertaut, Vice Mayor Ben Nett and Councilmember Susan Khalil and Carol Luke. The recall is reportedly over a vote to get rid of the police department, a firing of the town manager and replacement with a former mayor. Nett was apparently fired from the police department days before the vote. The officials fault the minority on the board for the issues.

Petitioners handed in 1088 for Bertaut, 1081 for Luke, 1085 for Khalil and 1091 for Nett. They need 495 per official. Virginia uses a recall trial law, so a judge would decide whether the officials should be removed. 

Nebraska: Petitions taken out against Scotts Bluff Commissioner

Petitions have been taken out against Scotts Bluff County Commissioner Charlie Knapper over alleged issues with a county employee. 

Petitioners need 595 signatures in 30 days. 

Saturday, April 26, 2025

Missouri: Petitioners may have handed in 60K signatures for recall of Jackson County Executive/All-Star Royals 2nd Baseman

Petitioners have claimed to handed in 60,000 signatures for the recall of Jackson County Executive Frank White -- (yes, the Royals former All-Star 2nd Baseman), though they need (or needed -- I'm not clear) to raise $150,000 to get the petitioners to hand it in. 

The recall is over complaints that property taxes are going up between 30% - 400%. There is a complaint that White's salary went up 7%. A recall was threatened last year as well. White says that it was over his vote against a Stadium, and the leaders of the petition (who owe $150,000 for polling), are contractors who wanted a yes vote.

Three legislators have asked the Attorney General for an investigation into White

Petitioners would need 42,902 valids to get on the ballot.

Wisconsin: Wrightstown School Board President ousted

Wrightstown President Angela Hansen-Winker was ousted in a recall, losing 1019- 456 to Nicole Verbetento on April 22.

The recall is over claims that she misused legal counsel and mishandled a superintendent investigation.

Fellow school board member Rayn Warner is leading the recall effort. Another board member Tiffany Van Vreede is mentioned as a supporter as well. 

The Wrightstown School Board Clerk has resigned right before the recall vote. Petitioners handed in 1200 signatures, not sure how many were needed or were verified.

Maine: Freedom Select Board Member and Blair Witch Project Star ousted in recall vote

Freedom Select Board member Heather Donahue was ousted in an April 23rd recall vote, 122-91. 

Donahue, famous for her leading role in "The Blair Witch Project," faced the recall over whether a road that a family has claimed has public access or not (Donahue has argued that it does). The petitioners are complaining that Donahue cut brush and trimming on the road and used orange spray paint to mark trees on the public easement. 

There are also issues of complaints about the old board (Donahue was elected last year), including late IRS payments and budget confusion, so this may be part of an old residents vs. new residents fight. 

Another Selectman, Ryan Willette, resigned, which means the board no longer has a quorum. Petitioners handed in 73 signatures and needed 46 valids.

Tuesday, April 22, 2025

Washington: Camas City Council member facing recall effort

Camas City Council John Svilarich is facing a recall effort, with a judge set to a hold a hearing on whether petitions can move forward under Washington's malfeasance standard.. Svilarich was arrested on criminal assault and reckless endangerment charges, after an argument over the disposal of a cigarette butt led to a rock throwing and a gun being pulled. 

Among the lead petitioners are Svilarich's opponent in the last election, a losing mayoral candidate and the husband of one of the other councilors.

Monday, April 21, 2025

Oakland: Barbara Lee wins Oakland Mayoral Replacement race

Longterm former Congresswoman Barbara Lee has won the replacement race, with the numbers currently sitting at 53-47% over Loren Taylor, after the ranked choice voting. The race was close, as Taylor led early. Taylor actually led in the 2022 race before losing to former Mayor Sheng Thao due to the ranked choice voting system.

There have been numerous complaints about voter turnout in the special, though notably not much discussion of the fact that the recall vote in November saw a much higher voter turnout than Thao's original election in 2022. And little blame has passed to the legislature for removing the same-day replacement vote. 

Turnout seems to be 36% of registered voters.

Friday, April 18, 2025

Minnesota: Petitions taken out against International Falls council members

Four International Falls Council members Pete Kalar, Tim Wegner, Walt Buller and Mike Holden, are facing petitions. 

Petitioners are upset about renovations on a new police office, rather than sharing the sheriff's office or using the old center. There's also complaints about other funding issues including a bond for an arena and a stadium and street repairs. 

Councilmembers allegedly used slurs in referring to participants at a meeting.

The clerk rejected the petitions, allegedly claiming that signers failed to include birthdates (which does not appear to be required) and the petition did not include a valid reason. Minnesota is a malfeasance standard state, so this could prove to be a significant hurdle, though the courts usually weigh in here. 

Arizona: Petitions taken out against four GOP House leaders

Petitions have been taken out against four Arizona Republican State House members, Speaker Steve Montenegro, Majority Leader Michael Carbone, Appropriations Chair David Livingston and Representative Matt Gress.

The recall is over delays for a supplemental funding for the Division of Developmental Disabilities. 

Petitioners need 25% of turnout by August 15, which is, Gress 34,399, Montenegro, 27,381, Livingston, 26,342, and Carbone, 21,747.

California: San Fernando Mayor and councilmembers facing recall threats over sanctuary city vote

San Fernando Mayor Mary Mendoza and Councilmembers Joel Fajardo and Victoria Garcia are facing recall threats over their votes against becoming a sanctuary city. Petitioners would need 2499 signatures to get on the ballot.

Nebraska: Falls City Mayor facing petitions

Petitions have been taken out against Falls City Mayor Mark Harkendorff following the resignation of all six members of the City Utilities line crew. Petitions blame "unprofessional" and "insulting" behavior.

Petitioners need 475 signatures. 

The recall has been started by former Councilmember Kaylie Ractliffe.

Oregon: Unity Community Hall and Recreation District Board member facing May 6 recall vote

Unity Community Hall and Recreation District Board Member Daniel Davis is facing a recall vote over the use of the hall. Petitioner seems to be complaining about a pop-up pub run by a nonprofit that Davis helped found. Ballots have to be returned by May 6.

123 signatures were turned in.

Thursday, April 17, 2025

California: Oakland Mayor Replacement Race close in first count

The Oakland Mayoral Replacement race is shaping up to be a close contest, with City Councilmember Loren Taylor leading former Representative Barbara Lee, though we have quite a ways to go before we know anything. Taylor actually led in the 2022 race before losing to former Mayor Sheng Thao due to the ranked choice voting system.

There have been numerous complaints about voter turnout in the special, though notably not much discussion of the fact that the recall vote in November saw a much higher voter turnout than Thao's original election in 2022. And little blame has passed to the legislature for removing the same-day replacement vote. 

Turnout seems to be 36% of registered voters.

Taiwan: Six people charged with falsifying signatures in recall effort

Six people were charged (and released on bail) in claims that they falsified signatures in recall efforts against legislators. Notably, they all were allegedly forging signatures against Democratic Progressive Party candidates. Most of the recalls are targeting the Kuomintang candidates. 

Ballotpedia Q1 recall report

Here

Arizona: Three South Tucson recalls make the August 5th ballot, lead petitioner is councilmember/former Mayor (and former recall loser)

Recall Elections against South Tucson City Council members Roxanna Valenzuela, Brian Flagg and Cesar Aguirre has been set for August 5th. The recall was originally over claims that Valenzuela does not meet the residency requirement and the other two helped cover it up, though it seems other issues about ignoring the lead petitioner have cropped up. 

The leader of the recall effort is current councilmember and former  Mayor Paul Diaz led the effort, who also has claims that they bought a motel that seems to be used by the government to put up some people (perhaps coming out of rehab) and their support for Prop. 409, a tax to fund public safety (which passed).

Diaz himself lost a recall vote in 2015 and then came back in 2018 with a recall against other councilmembers and regained the mayoralty.

Diaz got 163 signatures for Flagg, 170 for Aguirre and 173 for Valenzuela.

Wisconsin: Wrightstown School Board Clerk resigns before recall vote

The Wrightstown School Board Clerk has resigned right before the recall vote against President Angela Hansen-Winker on April 22 (Nicole Verbeten running against her.) The recall is over claims that she misused legal counsel and mishandled a superintendent investigation.

Fellow school board member Rayn Warner is leading the recall effort. Another board member Tiffany Van Vreede is mentioned as a supporter as well. 

Petitioners handed in 1200 signatures, not sure how many were needed or were verified.

California: City Clerk sues petitioners in recall effort against Lancaster Mayor

Lancaster City Clerk has sued the lead petitioners (all 86 signers) in the ongoing recall effort against six-term Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris, claiming that the petition contains false information.

The recall was focused on a whole group of subjects, including changing the term from two to four years -- though this was back in 2010 (it was a voter measure), a proposed project for the homeless and his comments about a purge, giving homeless free fentanyl and some proposal for Chinese birth tourism in 2013 (though apparently not proposed by Parris.

The lead petitioners appear to be two of the people who Parris beat in the election last year, Republican Mark Maldonado and Democrat Johnathon Ervin. Parris won (in a field of 10) 4763 to 3648 for Erivn and 3190 for Maldonado.