Michigan: Redding Township officials lose recall vote

Redding Township Supervisor Bruce Scarbrough, Trustee Marlene McGlasan and Trustee Nancy Scarbrough all lost recall votes. Bruce Scarbrough lost to Michael Trzcienski 67-52, Nancy Scarbrough lost to Linda Ann Miller 59-55-8, and McGlasan lost to Louis Schreiner, 60-53. 

There was also a recall attempt against Supervisor Susan Brower, but that did not get to the ballot.

The lead petitioner complained about racist comments by a city employee, though he previously started a recall after he received a blight ordinance notice. 

Michigan: Pere Marquette officials ousted in recall

Pere Marquette Treasurer Karie Bleau (R) was kicked out in a recall vote, losing to Sarah Iteen 544-108.

There's no coverage of the recall vote against her husband Township Supervisor Jerry Bleau (R), who recently though not early enough for the recall to be cancelled. Presumably, Kelly Smith won that race. 

Karie Bleau faced a recall over complaints about lack of leadership, difficulty with employees and accounting practices. Jerry Bleau said that he believes the issue was clean-up of blight at a Recycling factory. The Bleaus are married. 

The Bleaus led a recall effort against Township Clerk Rachelle Enbody (R) and Trustee Ron Soberalski (D), which focused on about harassment and bullying for Enbody and billing errors with the water system. That recall did not get the signatures.

Colorado: Broomfield City Councilmember survives recall vote

Broomfield Councilmember Todd Cohen seems to be on the path to surviving his recall vote, with the latest vote of 2353-2757.

The recall is over his support for two gun control ordinances that passed, one of which required serialized numbers to prevent ghost guns and banning open carry. Petitioners are also complaining about a water tank bill and homelessness. 

Another councilmember, Heidi Henkel, was also targeted, but since she is up for reelection, it seems like there is no real effort against her.

The anti-recall group is citing a potential cost of $76,000 for the recall.

Ohio: Newton Falls Councilwoman ousted

Newton Falls Councilwoman Tesa Spletzer was ousted in a recall vote, losing with an 268-79. The replacement will be named by the council.

Speltzer was accused of misbehavior at council meetings and an amorphous list of misfeasance complaints.

Newton Falls was the site of a one of the more contested 2021 recalls, where Councilwoman Sandra Breymaier lost a recall after appealing to the state Supreme Court (and having the election canceled once). Councilman John Baryak lost a recall in 1993 and then survived one in 2019 (Baryak is named in the article as he hit his term limit). 

Michigan: Parma Township Supervisor ousted

Parma Township Supervisor Wendy Chamberlain was ousted in recall vote, losing to Bobbie Norman 433-181. The recall was over a vote on a gravel pit development.

Michigan: Wipe-out in Green Charter Township, as five ousted in recalls and two others resign

Five Green Charter Township officials were ousted in recall votes on election day and two others resigned earlier. The recall was over their support for a battery component manufacturing facility (which petitioners complained had ties to China).

Petitioners gave in about over 600 signatures and needed 458. Not sure how many were approved.  

No word in the article about the petitions against Supervisor James Chapman lost to Jason Kruse (740-498), Clerk Janet Clark was beaten by Corri Riebow (655-585), Treasurer Denise Macfarlane fell to Robert Henderson (656-582), Trustee Roger Carroll was kicked out by Kelly Cushway (707-527) and Trustee Dale Jernstadt was defeated by Jeff Thorne (758-471).

Trustees Gary Todd and James Leek resigned earlier. 

Additionally, support for the same project resulted in the ouster of Big Rapids Township Supervisor Bill Stanek.

Michigan: Split decision in Fremont Township, with 4 of 5 ousted, including 3 by write-in candidates

Four out of five Fremont Township members were ousted in recall votes, including three who lost against write-in candidates. Supervisor Jeffrey Furness lost to write-in Mark Kerward (222-175), Clerk Reta Gardner lost to write-in Sonya Francis (229-170), Treasurer Patti Shinn was ousted by write-in Jessica Onufrank (225-173), and Trustee Michael Noll was beaten by Kevin Bradley (230-167). Only Trustee Karen Kovach survived the vote, beating Debra Diane Allen, 140-253.

The recall was also about wind turbines (raising the maximum allowable height). 

Michigan: Four Speaker Township officials ousted in recall vote

Four Speaker Township members were ousted in recall votes yesterday, with Clerk Dawn Cubitt losing to Michelle Brown (250-183), Treasurer Tracy Sheldon falling to Rochelle Stevens (239-194), Trustee Thomas Murray being beaten by Fred Moss (255-177) and Trustee Charles Stanley defeated by Jeremie Risdon (256-179). 

The recall was over their support for wind turbines in the area.

Michigan: Three Sandusky School Board members ousted in recall vote

Three Sandusky School Board members, President Jason Trepkowski, Treasurer Daniel Gerstenberger and Trustee Jane Jacobson were all ousted in a recall vote. Trepkowski list to David Herberling (814-719), Gerstenberger lost to Katie Tovar (778-752) and Jacvson lost to Kelly Trowhill (872-646).

The recall was over the decision to rename the school mascot from the Redskins to the Wolves.

Michigan: Eagle Township supervisor ousted

Eagle Township Supervisor Patti Schafer was ousted in a recall vote, losing to Troy Stroud (72%-25%). The recall was over the board's signing an non-disclosure agreement as part of a factory development . 

There were also recall efforts against Treasurer Kathy Oberg and Trustee Richard Jones, though I'm not sure what happened with those.

Michigan: White River Supervisor ousted over support for solar project

White River Supervisor Mike Cockerill was ousted in a recall by Ron Bailey (491-151). The recall was over his support for a solar project. Cockerill also was attacked for having land that will be leased to the renewable project.

Michigan: Big Rapids Township recall Supervisor ousted in recall vote

Big Rapids Township Supervisor Bill Stanek was ousted in a recall vote, 444-391. The recall seems to be connected to the Green Township recalls over support for a battery component manufacturing facility. 

Oregon: Brookings Mayor and Councilmembers appear to lose recall votes

Early results are out for recalls against three Brookings Mayor Ron Hedenskog and city councilmembers Ed Schreiber and Michelle Morosky, with all three losing badly (though full results won't be known for sometime). Hedenskog is losing 71-29%, Schreiber 68.5-31.5%, and Morosky is down 70-30%. 

The recall is over the decision to reinstate the City Manager following her arrest for shoplifting. 

California: Alameda County recall effort claims 70K signatures

The recall effort against Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price is reporting that they are nearing the total needed to get on the ballot (73,195) with many months to go before signatures are due. Also, here's a look at the big funders for the recall effort, which has raised $500K already.

California: Alameda County Supervisors attempt to change recall laws, fail to do so

Lots going on in Alameda County, all of it seemingly surrounding the recall effort against District Attorney Pamela Price. I want to write a longer piece on the subject, but let's at least get started here.

The county Supervisors tried to push an ordinance that would align Alameda's laws with the new laws that the state adopted for local recalls, though it has since been tabled. The practical result of this would be to 1) get rid of the replacement race in any recall and 2) potentially raise the signature total for recalls, from 15% of turnout in the last election to 10% of registered voters and 3) potentially delay elections to general election dates (though not always).

The challenge here is that the proposal would have to have been approved by voters, and that may not be as easy as it seems (there's a reason that the proposal to change the state recall law went nowhere).

California: Signatures handed in against Woodland School Board Member

Signatures have been turned in against Woodland School Board Member Emily McDonald over statements she made on transgender policy. Petitioners handed in 1349 signatures and needed 1078.

Oregon: Petitions handed in against Cottage Grove City Councilor

Signatures have been turned in against Cottage Grove City Council Mike Fleck, though no signatures were turned in against City Councilors John Stinnett and Chalice Savage over the city's homeless policy and a lack of responsiveness. Petitioners need 654 signatures and handed in eight more than needed.

I appeared with petitioner Michael Borke on a City Club of Eugene/KLCCprogram that should be available tomorrow. Well worth listening to for Michael's on-the-ground thoughts on why he launched a recall and the pros and cons of the effort.

Wisconsin: Assembly Speaker facing recall threats

Recall threats have been brought up against Wisconsin Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R), a figure that long-time readers of the blog are well-acquainted with. The threat is actually coming from the right, and Vos has pushed for the impeachment of Wisconsin's Election Commission Chair Meagan Wolfe as she has refused to push for the discredited claims of election fraud.

Vos almost lost in 2022 after refusing to back the election fraud claims. Former Supreme Court Justice Michael Gableman, who has previously targeted Vos, has called for his recall if he didn't support the impeachment of Wolfe.

A recent court decision has held that the legislature does not have the power to impeach Wolfe.

Oregon: Lakeside Mayor and three councilors recall scheduled for November 28

The recall election of Lakeside Mayor Sherry Kinsey and councilors Karen Hurn, Kim Ritter and Jaci Smith is scheduled for November 28.

The recall is over money spent to boost local tourism. Apparently, the spent $23,250 on rebranding the city's logo and buying a $280,000 property. Petitioners needed 176 signatures.

Michigan: Elections to be held on November 7 against three Sandusky School Board members

Three Sandusky School Board members, President Jason Trepkowski, Treasurer Daniel Gerstenberger and Trustee Jane Jacobson will be facing a recall vote on November 7. The recall is over a decision to rename the school mascot from the Redskins to the Wolves.

David Hebering, Katherine Tovar and Kelly Trowhill are running against them.

Petitioners needed 749 signatures and handed in 1009 against Trepkowski (886 verified), 1029 for Jacobson (897) and 1008 for Gerstenberg (860).

California: Santa Ana City Council recall still on, though petitioners had old maps for district

The Santa Ana City recall of City Council member Jessie Lopez ran into new complications, with claims that the petitioners and city used old maps of the district, which Lopez supporters and the Registrar of Voters claim should have led to the recall being thrown out ahead of the November 14 vote. The City Council deadlocked, which will let keep the recall on track -- let's see what happens when they go to a judge.

Not the first hiccup in this recall. There were significant delays on scheduling this for the ballot, as Lopez's allies on the council had refused to set a date for the recall. As opposed to other states, this isn't a big deal, as the Registrar of Voters simply scheduled a date for the recall if the council can't get it together. 

Petitioners handed in 6617 signatures were either handed in, with 1333 knocked out (395 duplicates). So 5284 were validated and they needed 5274. Additionally, 129 people asked for their name to be removed under the signature strike law. 

There was also a petition outstanding against councilmember Thai Viet Phan.

Therecall efforts was led by the police union over a labor contract. The contract reportedly doesn't met the union pay-raise proposals. The recall chairman cited a 2021 rent control policy as the reason for the recall. The recall effort comes after progressives won four council seats in 2020. 

The union backed a 2020 recall vote against Council member Cecillia Iglesias, who was kicked out.

The election would cost between $230-$255,000, though new reporters are saying that it would cost between $607,000-$666,000.

California: San Luis Obispo County Supervisor facing petitions

San Luis Obispo County Supervisor Bruce Gibson is facing petitions seemingly over an "attempt to privatize North County water" and claims of micromanagement and open government law violations.  Petitioners need about 7500 signatures to get on the ballot.

Update: The effort has been "terminated."

Oregon: John Day Mayor facing petitions

John Day Mayor Heather Rookstool is facing petitions over claims that she falsified documents violated public meeting laws and interfered with public records requests as part of an attempt to take over city manager duties. Petitioners have also filed a criminal complaint. Petitioners need 15% of turnout from the gubernatorial election in 90 days.

Virginia: Newport News considering charter amendment to adopt recalls

Newport News is once again looking at allowing a vote on a charter amendment to allow recalls in the city.

Last year, Newport News looked into the amendment and it had the support of Mayor McKinley Price is in favor of the recall law. The state legislature would need to approve it.

Under last year's proposed amendment, petitions would need 25% of turnout (at least 300 signatures for each district and 1000 for the  mayor). There would also be a one year grace period.

In 2019, Newport News Vice Mayor Tina Vick faced recall threats, though it seems not to have any legal backing to it.

California: Petitions taken out against four Lamont School Board members

Petitions have been taken out against Lamont Elementary School Board Trustees Gilberto Lopez Jr., Pablo Trevino, Ernesto Garay and Evelyn Velasquez. The issue is complaints about leadership, specifically the decision to put an administrator on leave. 

Petitioners need more than 1200 signatures by December 4. 

Colorado: Mt. Crested Butte City Council makes the ballot

Signatures have been verified in the recall of Mt. Crested Butte City Council member Roman Kolodziej. Petitioners handed in 45 valids and needed 41.

The issue is changing bus routes by Mountain Express to an on-demand service (Kolodziej serves on the MTX board). A second recall petition, against MTX Dwayne Lehnertz was taken out, but failed to turn in signatures. 

Arizona: Signatures handed in against Cottonwood Mayor

Signatures have been turned in against Cottonwood Mayor Tim Elinski. Petitioners handed in 830 signatures and need 641 valids. There's seems to be a lot of conflicting issues online, so can't say what it is at the moment. Hopefully, we'll be able to update soon.

Update: The signatures failed

Michigan: Petitions taken out against three Eagle Township officials

 Eagle Township Supervisor Patti Schafer is facing a recall vote on Election Day over signing an non-disclosure agreement as part of a factory development . Petitioners needed about 450 signatures. 

There were also recall efforts against Treasurer Kathy Oberg and Trustee Richard Jones, though I'm not sure what happened with those (paywalls).

Nevada: Incline Village General Improvement Trustees recall effort fails

The recall effort against  Incline Village General Improvement District Chair Matthew Dent and Trustee Sara Schmitz has failed, with too many signatures been knocked out. 

Three former board trustees lead the effort over the firing of a general manager for the district and a no vote on a $26 Million grant.

Petitioners needed 1801 signatures or 25% of turnout (and supposedly, only those who voted in the 2020 election can sign, though I'm not sure if that limiting provision preventing newer residents or people who didn't vote in that specific election actually holds up if challenged in court). Not sure how many were handed in, but they got 1762 for Dent and 1687 for Schmitz. 

Michigan: Signatures turned in against Ottawa County Commissioner

Petitioners have turned in over 3000 signatures in the recall against Ottawa County Commissioner Lucy Ebel over her vote to reverse the hiring of the county health officer. Ebel is a member of Ottawa Impact, a fundamentalist Christian group who have elected a number of officials in the county. Some of Ebel's supporters claim the recall is because of her Latino heritage, though the recall proponents deny this charge.

Petitions are still out against Ottawa County Commissioner Doug Zylstra (D) and Roger Bergman (R). The petitions has been pushed by the Ottawa Impact over the two commissioners opposition to a bill that claiming to protect "childhood innocence."  Zylstra noted that the bill lacked any specificity for staffers to follow. Petitioners would need 2620 signatures for Zylstra and 3717 for Bergman.

Wisconsin: Petitions filed against Raymond School Board Members

Petitions have been taken out against Raymond School Board Members Gwen Keller and Jannell Wise. The recall seems to be over the firing of a principal. The principal claims he was fired because he is gay.

California: Signatures validated against Orange County School Board members -- election to be held March 5

The recall effort against Orange Unified School Board Members Madison Klovstad Miner (who helped flip majority control of the board) and Rick Ledesma has gotten to the ballot. The recall is over the firing of the school superintendent with no explanation. 

Petitioners needed 13,046 signatures to get on the ballot. They claim to have handed in more than 18,000. They handed in 15016 valids for Ledesma and 14736 for Miner. The election will likely be held on March 5. 

The school board members are part of a conservative 4-3 majority and the firing was over complaints about policies to prevent the spread of the coronavirus pandemic and critical race theory. 

Texas: White Settlement proposition looks to change recall from political to malfeasance standard rules (Update: It passed)

White Settlement is voting for a proposition that would enact a charter rule change that would appear to turn the city from a political recall to malfeasance standard (or judicial recall) one, requiring that petitions include grounds of "incompetency, misconduct or malfeasance in office..." as well as creating a hearing and limiting how frequently a recall can take place. The Proposition is one of 21 that the city is voting on to change their government.

Update: The Proposition P passed 539-113. All the propositions passed by overwhelming margins. 

Oregon: Petitions taken out against six King City Councilors

Petitions have been taken out against six King City Mayor Jamie Fender and Councilors Katie Mohr, Laurie Petrie, Marc Manelis, Micah Paulsen and Smart Ocholi. One Councilor is not targeted.

The recall is over a decision to create a master plan and transportation plan after adding an 528 acre area to the city's boundaries.  Petitioners complained about potential traffic increases from the plan. The Election Officer tried to invalidate the petitions over claims that they petition is factually inaccurate, but the Secretary of State has pushed back and is calling for the election division to approve the petitions.

Oklahoma: Petitions taken out against Enid Commissioner

Petitions have been taken out against Enid City Commissioner Judd Blevins over claims that he was the state coordinator for a white nationalist group (Identity Evropa, which was renamed American Identity Movement). 

Michigan: Petition language approved against two House members

Petitions have been approved against House members Betsy Coffia and Noah Arbit on the third attempt.

Eight Michigan House members have been targeted for recall. 

Petitions have been approved against House member Sharon MacDonell and Republican Representative Cam Cavitt have been approved. Cavitt's recall language was over his vote in favor of electing Representative Joe Tate as speaker. 

Previously, revised petitions were submitted against four Democratic Michigan House members, Jennifer Conlin and Reggie Miller.

Petition language was previously rejected in seven of eight filings, as well as Sharon MacDonell (D) and Jamie Churches (D) and Republican Donni Steele (R). 

The six Democrats are targeted over votes in favor of red flag laws to remove guns from people who are considered extreme risks (Coffia and MacDonell) and hate crimes legislation (Conlin, Miller and Churches). The petitions did not spell this out, which resulted in their rejection. Steele (R) is also facing a recall effort over her vote in favor of a bill requiring safe storage of guns when not in use.

While the petition language is over these bills and votes, most believe the recall is due to the fact that the Democrats have a narrow 56-54 majority in the House, leading petitioners to think they can gain control of the chamber with recalls. 

Recalls to flip a chamber are not unusual and have actually worked, though the longer term implications are frequently poor. Recalls in Washington in 1981, Michigan in 1983, California in 1995, Wisconsin in 1996, Wisconsin in 2011, 2012, Colorado in 2013 and attempts in Colorado and Nevada in 2019 all had this goal. In Michigan, California and Wisconsin (1996), recalls actually resulted in change of control, though only the Michigan one stuck (Democrats have been out of power in the Michigan Senate for nearly 40 years, ending this last election.

Michigan has also had four state legislative elections, in 1983, 2008 and 2011. Three of the four led to removal.

Two more Michigan House Representatives are facing recall efforts, bringing the total ongoing recall attempts to eight. 

Georgia: Petitions taken out against Newton County Board Chairman

Petitions have been filed against Newton County Board Commissioner Chairman Marcello Banes over claims that of misuse of county funds and a strained working relationship with another commissioner.

Petitioner needs 23,698 signatures (30% of registered voters) in 45 days. Georgia is a Malfeasance State, but no word on whether it has been approved yet.

Michigan: Delta County Commissioner recall makes the ballot

Petitioners have gotten enough signatures to get the the recall of Delta County Commissioner Dave Moyle on the ballot. 823 were handed in, and 671 were validated. They needed 666. The recall is over their votes to fire the County Administrator. 

Signatures have also been handed in against Delta County Commissioner Robert Barron, and though a copyist error (not including his full name in one spot and misspelling administrator) led to questions of whether to toss out them out. The County Attorney held that this wasn't a reason to invalidate the whole thing (based on a 2019 Supreme Court ruling).

Petitioners handed in 1235 and need 1001 valids.  Signatures were previously handed in against  Delta County Commissioner Dave Moyle. 823 were handed in and they need 666 valids. There is also a recall effort outstanding against Commissioners Robert Petersen. 

Petitioners will need 775 for Petersen.

Update: Signatures were handed in against Petersen.

Texas: Mineral Wells Councilmember recall makes the May 4 ballot

The recall of Mineral Wells Councilmember Jerrel Tomlin over a water rate hike to build a reservoir has made the ballot and will be held on May 4 (when the regular election for the position will be held, so he will only be kicked out for a short time). Petitioners handed in 571 signatures and needed 517.

New Mexico: Rio Arriba County Chair facing recall effort

Petitions are being taken out against Rio Arriba County Commission Chair Alex Naranjo over his decision to place a bronze statute of a Juan de Onate (a noted conquistador) at the county office complex. The decision led to complaints and a shot was fired (leading to an attempted murder charge)

New Mexico is Malfeasance Standard state, so the recall would need a statutorily delineated reason to get on the ballot. In this case, it is a claim that there is a violation of the Open Meetings Act. Petitioners would need over 1200 signatures to get on the ballot.  

UK: Recall may be started against Conservative MP

Another UK Minister of Parliament may soon face a recall effort, as a panel recommended that Conservative MP Peter Bone be suspended for six weeks for sexual misconduct and bullying his staff.  Bone has been in office since 2005 and was previously deputy leader of Commons.

As with other recalls in UK, a suspension of 10 days from Parliament leads to the ability to start a recall petition. If enough signatures are gathered, the official is automatically removed and a by-election is scheduled. 

Passamaquoddy Chief at Sipayik removed -- fourth chief removed in seven years

Passamaquoddy Chief at Sipayik Rena Newell was recall, 175-142, in her first year in office. Petitioners handed in 185 signatures and needed 179 (50% of turnout). She is the fourth chief kicked out in seven years, as have two tribal councilors. The recall was over spending and campaign promises issues.

Michigan: Signatures handed in against second Delta County Commissioner

Signatures have been handed in against Delta County Commissioner Robert Barron, and  though a copyist error (not including his full name in one spot and misspelling administrator) led to questions of whether to toss out them out. The County Attorney held that this wasn't a reason to invalidate the whole thing (based on a 2019 Supreme Court ruling).

Petitioners handed in 1235 and need 1001 valids.  

Signatures were previously handed in against  Delta County Commissioner Dave Moyle. 823 were handed in and they need 666 valids. There is also a recall effort outstanding against Commissioners Robert Petersen. The recall is over their votes to fire the County Administrator. 

Petitioners will need 775 for Petersen.

UK: Column calls for expanding MP recall to include party-switching

Here

UK: Labour wins big victory in MP replacement race

The replacement race in the successful recall of MP Margaret Ferrier (a former SNP member) has resulted in a resounding victory for Labour that is seen as a strong sign of their success in the next election. 

Labour's Michael Shanks won the by-election with 17,485 votes, more than double the SNP candidate (Katy Loudon). 

Ferrier did not contest the race. She had been ousted with a recall petition, where petitioners got 11,896 signatures and needed 8112.

Ferrier received a 30 day suspension from parliament started a recall petition under UK rules (a suspension of 10 days or more kicks the recall into gear). Ferrier plead guilty to violating COVID safety protocols in 2020, after refusing to self isolate, going to church and a bar and then taking a train from Glasgow to London despite having the coronavirus (though she had not yet tested positive). 

California: Petitions taken out against Ojai Valley Councilmember

Petitions have been taken out against Ojai Valley Councilmember Andrew Whitman (a first attempt was rejected due to a technical error). The issue seems to be an attempt to remove the mayor's majority on the council. Petitioners cite watershed contamination, homelessness and a violation of Open Meeting Act laws.

Petitioners need 332 signatures. 

Oregon: Recall of Brookings Mayor and Councilmembers makes the November 7 ballot

Signatures have been verified against Brookings Mayor Ron Hedenskog and city councilmembers Ed Schreiber and Michelle Morosky over reinstating the City Manager following her arrest for shoplifting. No word on how many they got, but petitioners needed over 400 signatures in 90 days. The election would be held on November 7.

Texas: Signatures handed in against Mineral Wells Councilmember

Signatures have been handed in against Mineral Wells Councilmember Jerrel Tomlin over a water rate hike to build a reservoir. Petitioners handed in 571 signatures and need 517.

Arizona: Sun City West Board members facing petitions

This is all behind a paywall, but the recall is targeting three members, include Recreation Center Sun City West Board President Timothy Hurley and Treasurer Dick Rhoades.

Colorado: Three Englewood officials survive recall vote

All three Englewood officials facing a recall vote, Mayor Othoniel Sierra and Councilmembers Chelsea Nunnenkamp and Joe Anderson, appear to have survived, though the numbers are still being counted. Nunnenkamp is closest, with a 14 vote margin against the recall, 421-435 at the moment. Sierra is leading 465-654 and Anderson is up 734-988.

Councilmember Cheryl Wink has chosen to resign.

The recall effort was over a plan to allow multifamily development in a single-family zone. Wink is also facing complaints about attendance.

Anderson succeeded a former Councilmember Laurett Barrentine, who survived a recall vote but lost reelection. 

California: Signatures handed in against Orange County School Board members

Signatures have been handed in against Orange Unified School Board Members Madison Klovstad Miner (who helped flip majority control of the board) and Rick Ledesma over the firing of the school superintendent with no explanation. 

Petitioners need 13,046 signatures to get on the ballot. They claim to have handed in more than 18,000.

The school board members are part of a conservative 4-3 majority and the firing was over complaints about policies to prevent the spread of the coronavirus pandemic and critical race theory. 

North Dakota: No charges in failed Fargo School Board members recall effort

There will be no charges for the failed 2021 recall effort against four Fargo School Board members, Seth Holden, Tracie Newman, Nikkie Gullickson and Jim Johnson. Many signatures were stricken due to error. The recall effort was over their support for hybrid learning initiatives to prevent the coronavirus pandemic. The petitioners cite other grievances, but the Facebook page is ND Parents Against Distance Learning.

Petitioners needed 4,144 signatures for each to get on the ballot. The failure rate was significant (Gullickson 4457 handed in, 3081 validated; Holden, 4451 -- 2996; Johnson 4514 -- 2879; Newman 4472-2910). The article notes that there cannot be another recall attempt throughout the rest of the term, though that seems off (I would imagine that you need an actual vote for the one attempt rule to count).

California: Shasta County Supervisor recall set for March 5

The recall election for Supervisor Kevin Crye has been set for March 5, 2024 (Primary Day).

The recall got the ballot after petitioners handed in 5104 signatures and 4929 were verified. They need 4151 valids to get on the ballot. Supervisors questioned the small rejection rate.  

The recall is over the vote to cancel a voting systems contract with Dominion Voting and requiring handcounting, which will cost the county millions. This is part of the fight in Shasta and Crye seems to be connected to the far right groups, one of whom led the successful recall of Supervisor Leonard Moty.

Supporters in Shasta County are asking that Governor Gavin Newsom not appoint a replacement if is ousted in a recall and instead allow the voters to choose. Presumably, this could be an issue in the election. As a reminder, in 2022, the state changed the law for local officials who lose a recall election. In that case (unless there is a local law from a charter city), the new law eliminates a replacement election and instead uses an automatic replacement model (with the governor or a specified body making the choice of replacements). The law also explains why there is such a long timeframe until the recall is held (it allows a longer timeframe to tie recalls to general election dates).

Oregon: 40th State Rep. to face recall survives vote in blowout win

Oregon State Representative Paul Holvey (D) easily survived a recall vote, with the first batch of release votes showing him with 90% of the ballots. 10104-1122.

Holvey made the ballot after petitioners handed in a second batch of signatures following the invalidation of huge number of signatures.

The Holvey recall is not a partisan fight, rather it is being launch by one of the most powerful unions in the state, the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 555. Holvey is the Chair of the House Committee on Business and Labor.

The recall is over Holvey's failure to support a bill blocking cannabis employers from interfering with employee efforts to unionize. Holvey believed that it was preempted by federal law. Holvey was a former union representative and he notes that the state's largest union and others are backing Holvey in fighting the recall effort.

I discuss the recall and the lack of recalls at the state level here.

Michigan: Signature invalidation leads to failure of Flint Councilmember recall

The recall effort against Flint Council Vice President Ladel Lewi has failed after a bizarre twist, with petitioners missing out by 63 signatures. 1022 were handed in and 722 were validated. They needed 785. However, the clerk's office originally misplaced six pages, which led to a second count and the close numbers. 

Petitions were taken out against six Flint Councilmembers, Lewi,  Dennis Pfeiffer, Eva Worthing, Eric Mays and Judy Priestley (with two filed against Priestly). Herkenroder already announced that she is resigning her seat. No word on the other efforts.

The recall is over claims that Mays and another councilmember called a meeting that they others did not attend over the question of applying for a community grant program funding. Mays has also been charged with disorderly conduct for conduct at the council meetings that has apparently gone viral.

Nebraska: Recall Election against four Sargent School Board Members scheduled for December 12

The recall election against Sargent School Board members Martin Riddle, Loyd Pointer, Laura Kipp and Tammera Moody has been scheduled for December 12. Petitioners needed 95 signatures (35% of the highest vote total of any candidate in the last election) and enough were verified.

The recalls are over the board's vote to not renew the contact of a principal. 

Washington: A look back at the 1970 Tacoma City Council recall

Here

Maine: Sorrento voters apparently reject recall ordinance

Sorrento voters voted on a recall ordinance, though it may have been shot down. The issue was over the middle school library's decision to keep books with LGBTQ+ themes. The recall came after an earlier attempted to recall a Representative failed because the town did not have an ordinance. 

Virginia: Hampton Councilmember facing recall effort

Hampton City Councilmember Chris Bowman is facing a recall effort after he was named as a victim of an extortion attempt by a prostitute who he met in a hotel (the extortion was to return his cellphone).

Randy Bowman, who lost two races for the council, is leading the recall effort. 

Petitioners need 1608 signatures to get on the ballot.

California: Signature gathering starts in Alameda County District Attorney Recall -- Need 73,195 signatures

Petition language has been approved in the recall effort against Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price over complaints that she is too lenient on plea deals. Here's some earlier coverage about the complaint and Price's claim that the proponents were "election deniers." Also, here's some context of the battle against the progressive prosecutor movement.

Since I was just asked by our friends at the Daily Kos, it appears that the signature number cited earlier (93,000) is incorrect. That was based on California law, which requires the signatures of 10% of registered voters in the county. However, Alameda is a charter county and the law allows it's rules to supersede. Alameda requires 15% of the vote total for governor in the county in the last election (487,969). So petitioners need 73,195 signatures in 160 days.  

Ohio: Another recall attempted against East Cleveland Mayor

Once again, confusion reigns in East Cleveland, as there is another attempt to recall Mayor Brandon King, who survived a vote last year by 19 (or perhaps 8) votes. The story is a bit confusing, though it sounds like petitioners handed in enough signatures to get a recall on the ballot (they gave in 796 and had 417 valids and need 396 -- though I'm uncertain about those numbers). The recall would be December 5. 

The recall is over a kitchen sink of complaints, including a budget deficit, indicted police, corruption and "tall grass." City Council President Juanita Gowdy would automatically replace King.

While King survived last year's vote, East Cleveland Councilman Ernest Smith was removed. At that time, the city council appointed three different people to fill the seat that was opened with the recall of Ernest Smith (never got a clear answer on the legality of the law director's attempt to stop the recall of King, though he survived the vote anyway). Three council members appointed Lateek Shabazz (quoted in the story about the King recall. to fill the board seat, but that was found to violate the open meeting laws. The City Council President then appointed Jackie Goodrum, who was ineligible as she is a public employee. Finally, Mark McClain was appointed. 

Colorado: Elizabeth Trustee ousted

Elizabeth Trustee Angela Ternus was ousted, 176-122. The recall was over development issues. Elizabeth has been the focus of numerous recalls, with Trustee June Jurczewsky and Rachel White losing their seats in 2019 over their support for development proposals. 

Michigan: Petition to recall Flint City Councilwoman rejected on clarity grounds

Petition language was rejected against Flint City Councilwoman Jerri Winfrey-Carter. The recall is over Winfrey-Carter not voting for the budget. The petition was filed by former Councilmember Wantwaz Davis, who lost to Winfrey-Carter in 2017.

Michigan: Signatures handed in against one Delta County Commissioners

Signatures have been handed in against  Delta County Commissioner Dave Moyle. No word on how many were handed in, but they need 666 valids. There are also recall efforts outstanding against Commissioners Robert Petersen and Robert Barron over their votes to fire the County Administrator. 

Petitioners will need 1001 signatures for Barron and 775 for Petersen.

California: Signatures verified in Shasta County Supervisor recall

The recall against Supervisor Kevin Crye has gotten to the ballot. Petitioners handed in 5104 signatures and 4929 were verified. They need 4151 valids to get on the ballot. 

The recall is over the vote to cancel a voting systems contract with Dominion Voting and requiring handcounting, which will cost the county millions. This is part of the fight in Shasta and Crye seems to be connected to the far right groups, one of whom led the successful recall of Supervisor Leonard Moty.

Supporters in Shasta County are asking that Governor Gavin Newsom not appoint a replacement if is ousted in a recall and instead allow the voters to choose. Presumably, this could be an issue in the election. As a reminder, in 2022, the state changed the law for local officials who lose a recall election. In that case (unless there is a local law from a charter city), the new law eliminates a replacement election and instead uses an automatic replacement model (with the governor or a specified body making the choice of replacements).

Texas: Dallas mayor facing recall threats following party switch

Following news that Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson has switched his party registration from Democrat to Republican (after a recent re-election win), there is now talk of a recall. Note that the Dallas Mayoralty is a non-partisan election, so Johnson did not run as a member of a party.

Petitioners would need the signatures of 15% of registered voters in the last election in 60 days to get on the ballot. The Secretary of State's office has the county info, so hard to tell how much that is as of yet. The law specifies the city council is subject to a recall, but it notes that the mayor is the 15th city council member (election in the city as a whole). 

Michigan: Michigamme Township Clerk resigns after signatures verified

Michigamme Township Clerk Neil Hanson resigned after a recall effort made the ballot. Petitioners claimed that Hanson had been neglecting his duties. Hanson noted that health problems affected his work. Two of the five board members wanted to keep the recall on the ballot, but the other three accepted the resignation (which came one month after the verification was complete), and will appoint a replacement.

Oregon: Garibaldi Mayor resigns after petitions handed in

Garibaldi Mayor Tim Hall resigned after signatures were validated for a recall effort. Petitioners handed in 120 valid signatures. Hall said that he received pushback from city officials after he started looking into finances. Hall was one of only four Black mayors in the state.

A former Mayor, Judy Riggs, was a leader of the petition effort, claiming that Hall did not follow procedures and backed the fired City Manager in her $1M whistleblowing suit against the city (which has been dismissed).

Michigan: Petitions language approved against two Ottawa County Commissioners

Petitions have been taken out against Ottawa County Commissioner Doug Zylstra (D) and Roger Bergman (R) with the language approved by the Election Commission. Zylstra is appealing the decision. The petition is being pushed by the Ottawa Impact group, a fundamentalist Christian far right group, over the two commissioners opposition to a bill that claiming to protect "childhood innocence."  Zylstra noted that the bill lacked any specificity for staffers to follow. Petitioners would need 2620 signatures for Zylstra and 3717 for Bergman.

There is an ongoing recall effort against Commissioner Lucy Ebel, a member of the Ottawa Impact group.

Nevada: Signatures handed in against Incline Village General Improvement Trustees

Signatures have been handed in for the recall against Incline Village General Improvement District Chair Matthew Dent and Trustee Sara Schmitz. Three former board trustees are leading the effort. Looks like this is over the firing of a general manager for the district and a no vote on a $26 Million grant.

Petitioners need 1801 signatures or 25% of turnout (and supposedly, only those who voted in the 2020 election can sign, though I'm not sure if that limiting provision preventing newer residents or people who didn't vote in that specific election actually holds up if challenged in court).

Michigan: Local governments facing significant costs from potential state legislative recalls

Here

Oregon: Signatures handed in against Brookings Mayor and Councilmembers

It seems that petitions have been handed in against Brookings Mayor Ron Hedenskog and city councilmembers Ed Schreiber and Michelle Morosky over their decision to reinstate the City Manager following her arrest for shoplifting. Petitioners need over 400 signatures in 90 days (no word on how many signatures were handed in).

The Mayor is proposing a plan to handle the lack of a quorum if all of the recalls are successful (which would leave only two councilmembers). The charter requires a special election in 60 days to fill the seats. The mayor is looking for a same day recall replacement vote. 

Louisiana: Petitions taken out against Alexandria Mayor and Councilmembers

Petitions have been taken out against Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy and Councilmembers Jim Villard and Lee Rubin over complaints about police recruitment and retention plans, utility billing and homeless issues. 

Petitioners need 6329 signatures in 180 days. 

Georgia: Recall attempt against Richmond County Sheriff fails first hurdle

The first attempt to get a recall on the ballot against Richmond County Sheriff Richard Roundtree failed, as petitioners did not get the 100 signatures for the first stage of the recall. The recall is over complaints from the lead petition that the office didn't "sufficiently investigated a driver involved in a crash in his driveway." If they get over the first hurdle, petitioners would need 30% of registered voters to get on the ballot.

Nebraska: Signatures verified against four Sargent School Board Members; Election still to be scheduled

The recall election against Sargent School Board members Martin Riddle, Loyd Pointer, Laura Kipp and Tammera Moody seems to have gotten on the ballot. Petitioners needed 95 signatures (35% of the highest vote total of any candidate in the last election) and enough were verified (though I don't know the numbers. An election should be held soon.

The recalls are over the board's vote to not renew the contact of a principal. 

California: Petitions taken out against four Bell Gardens officials

Petitions have been taken out against Bell Gardens Mayor Francis De Leon Sanchez and Councilmembers Marco Barcena, Gabriela Gomez and Maria Pulido over their support for allowing cannabis dispensaries. 

Petitioners need about 3200 signatures each to get on the ballot.

Jamaica: Opposition leader calls for recall election law

Here

Oregon: Baker Mayor facing petitions

Petitions have been taken out against Baker Mayor Beverly Calder over an alleged attempt to hold a city council meeting without a quorum, interrupting meetings and apparently an attempt to reappoint herself mayor. 

Petitioners needs 747 signatures in 90 days. 

Georgia: Richmond County Sheriff facing petitions

Petitions are being taken out against Richmond County Sheriff Richard Roundtree over complaints from the lead petition that the office didn't "sufficiently investigated a driver involved in a crash in his driveway." Petitioners would need 30% of registered voters to get on the ballot.

California: Recall threatened against Sunol Glen School Board Members

Recall efforts are being discussed against Sunol Glen School Board Members Linda Hurley and Ryan Jergensen.

The recall is after the board voted to limit the school to only flying US or California state flags. The school flew a pride flag during Pride Month. 

Oregon: Petitions taken out against Lakeside Mayor and three councilors

Petitions are out targeting Lakeside Mayor Sherry Kinsey and councilors Karen Hurn, Kim Ritter and Jaci Smith over money spent to boost local tourism. Apparently, the spent $23,250 on rebranding the city's logo and buying a $280,000 property. Petitioners need 176 signatures.

South Dakota: Baltic Mayor survives recall vote

Baltic Mayor Deborah McIsaac survived a recall vote, 301-224 (Jamie Ingemensen, one of the petitioners, ran against McIsaac). 

The recall was over a construction project. The owner of the project claims that McIsaac and other city officials have thrown up roadblocks to stop the project from continuing.

South Dakota: Democratic Party Chair Appeal rejected

The South Dakota Democratic Party Appeals Committee has rejected former South Dakota Democratic Party Chair Jennifer Slaight-Hansen appeal of her recall vote.

Slaight-Hansen was kicked out in a recall election with a unanimous vote (though some members abstained). The committee will vote for a replacement on September 16.

Slaight-Hansen was elected but took over early in April after the former Chairman died. The Party's Executive Director Dan Ahlers resigned due to issues with Slaight-Hansen. Petitions claim that Slaight-Hansen hired staffers and interns without the approval of Party officials (which she acknowledges, but says there was precedent).

South Dakota has 11 Democrats in the 105 seat legislature and hasn't won a statewide race since 2008.

Petitioners need to get signatures from 50% of the party's central committee. That would result in a special election where two-thirds of the party need to vote for removal.

Texas: El Paso City Rep facing petitions

A recall effort has been started against El Paso City Representative Cassandra Hernandez over support for tax increases and spending money on a city-issued fuel card. 

The recall seems to be led by Irene Armendariz-Jackson, who has run for Congress several times and was called a "far right... extremist" and a QAnon supporter by the County Democratic Party.

Petitioners need more than 4800 signatures in 60 days.

Nebraska: Crofton Councilmember survives recall vote

Crofton Councilmember James Murphy survived a recall vote, 82-222. The recall is about the firing of the police chief and claims that he did not show up for meetings (Murphy argues that he missed two meetings in 2 1/2 years), as well as votes against hiring a special CPA firm or fixing roads and the claim that "he has no opinions on important matters."

Another Councilmember Larry Peitz, is facing a recall vote on November 14.

A recall against Mayor Bob Evans failed. The recalls seem to be about a police chief and officer firing (or nonrenewal). The former police chief took out the petitions against Evans and Peitz.

Oregon: Grants Pass Mayor survives recall vote

Grants Pass Mayor Sara Bristol survived her recall vote, 3023-5455. The recall election was apparently over homelessness issues following a court ruling preventing the removal of homeless from the park,  though it also claims that Bristol "does not represent their conservative principles." 

Petitioners claim to have handed in over 4300 signatures and needed 2462. They got at least 2700

Grants Pass had a recall in 2009, removing five council members.

California: Signatures handed in against Shasta County Supervisor

Petitioners have handed in 5104 signatures in the recall effort against Supervisor Kevin Crye. Petitioners need 4151 valids to get on the ballot. 

The recall is over the vote to cancel a voting systems contract with Dominion Voting and requiring handcounting, which will cost the county millions. This is part of the fight in Shasta and Crye seems to be connected to the far right groups, one of whom led the successful recall of Supervisor Leonard Moty.

Supporters in Shasta County are asking that Governor Gavin Newsom not appoint a replacement if is ousted in a recall and instead allow the voters to choose. Presumably, this could be an issue in the election. As a reminder, in 2022, the state changed the law for local officials who lose a recall election. In that case (unless there is a local law from a charter city), the new law eliminates a replacement election and instead uses an automatic replacement model (with the governor or a specified body making the choice of replacements).

California: Signatures near in Orange County School Board members recall effort

Petitioners are claiming that they are nearing enough signatures to get a recall of Orange Unified School Board Members Madison Klovstad Miner (who helped flip majority control of the board) and Rick Ledesma over the firing of the school superintendent with no explanation. The school board members are part of a conservative 4-3 majority and the firing was over complaints about policies to prevent the spread of the coronavirus pandemic and critical race theory. 

Michigan: Petitions taken out against three Plymouth-Canton School Board

Plymouth-Canton School Board President Shawn Wilson, VP Lauren Christenson and Treasurer Patrick Kehoe are facing recall efforts over a decision to get rid of the school's mascot (Chiefs) and logo 

Georgia: Woodbury Mayor ousted in recall vote

Woodbury Mayor Tonya Moody was kicked out in a recall vote 221-13. The issue was budgeting process and questions about the water system. The council will select a replacement.

UK: MP resigns in face of recall effort over groping suspension

Minister of Parliament Chris Pincher (Conservative) has resigned after a the House of Commons handed down an eight-week suspension, which would probably lead to a recall effort. Pincher was found guilty of groping two men last year. Pincher has already resigned his position as Deputy Whip. There will now be a by-election to replace him.

Missouri: Carthage Councilmember recall fails

A recall effort against Carthage Council member Mark Eliff failed, with petitioners not handing in any signatures. Petitioners needed about 600 signatures. Eliff is on the ballot in April.

The recall was over questions about the Carthage Water & Electric Board, including questioning salaries and removing (and then reinstating) board members.

Arizona: State Senate recall effort fails

The recall effort against State Senator Justine Wadsack (R) has failed, with petitioners not turning in any signatures. The recall effort was over claims that she tried to promote book bans, attacking the Arizona State Bar Association, making changes to the Arizona School for the Deaf and Blind and positions on the homelessness. Wadsack is a member of the Freedom Caucus.

The lead petition claims Wadsack has been attacking her as a "registered communist" and Wadsack has been accused of targeting other petitioners on social media.

Petitioners needed 30,981 signatures by September 5. 

Michigan: Green Charter Township Supervisor recall to be held on November 7

The recall effort against Green Charter Township Supervisor James Chapman has made the ballot and will be held on November 7. The recall is over their support for a battery component manufacturing facility.

Petitioners gave in about over 600 signatures and needed 458. Not sure how many were approved.  

No word in the article about the petitions against Clerk Janet Clark (558 signatures) , Treasurer Denise Macfarlane (556) and Trustees Roger Carroll (558), Dale Jernstadt (567) and Gary Todd (556) and Big Rapids Township Supervisor Bill Stanek (560).

UK: MP facing potential recall over groping conviction

Minister of Parliament Chris Pincher (Conservative) is facing a potential eight-week suspension, which would probably lead to a recall effort. Pincher was found guilty of groping two men last year. Pincher has already resigned his position as Deputy Whip.

Idaho: Judge stops ousted West Bonner School Board members from meeting to dissolve board

A judge has stopped an attempted by the recently ousted West Bonner School Board Chair Keith Rutledge and Trustee Susan Brown to dissolve the board, give power over to the superintendent and then elect a new chair in an attempted end run around the vote. 

The two were both ousted in the August 29 recall election, with Rutledge losing 762-454 (63-37%) and Brown losing 624-322 (66-34%). Turnout greatly exceeded the results from their original election in 2021, with 63% turnout.

Idaho has a "Queen of the Hill" provision, which would required a recall to not only win the vote, but top the total number of votes in favor of the candidate in the last election. In that race, Rutledge and Brown received 485 and 359 votes.

The recall is over a 3-2 vote to approve the appointment of former State Senator Branden Durst as the new school superintendent, despite him not having the qualifications to serve (he needs to have worked in a school for four years -- the board declared an emergency to allow it). Durst, a former Democrat who switched parties and ran for the Republican nomination for State Superintendent (he lost). Durst is seen as part of a "far-right takeover" of the schools.

Update: Durst resigned from the Superintendent position. 

Arizona: Petitions filed against three Fort Mojave Mesa Fire Department Board Members

Petitions have been taken out against three Fort Mojave Mesa Fire Department Board members. Everything is behind a paywall, so we don't yet have the names, though it seems like a former board member is leading the effort. The recall seems to be precipitated by a vote to fire the chief (which has since been overturned).

Nebraska: Brownville Board Member resigns after finding themselves over the line

Brownville Trustee Bailey Bindle resigned in the face of an upcoming recall election after accepting a new job. There is a recall scheduled for October 10 against Board members Natisha Helmick-Winkelman and Terry Vice. 

Don't see the details of this one yet, but it's funny how the things never Turn out the way you had 'em planned (okay, Brownville without the "s", but I'm running with it anyway).

Update: The two officials lost, 48-29 and 46-23. 

Virginia: Lake Monticello Board Member facing recall vote

Lake Monticello Board of Director member Donald Polonis is facing a recall vote on September 5 after being accused of posting anti-LGBTQ+ comments on a Facebook page and posting an email with a resident's name and contact info.

Petitioners need 2201 votes to remove (as a private entity, not everyone gets a vote).

Florida: Islamorada Councilmember facing petitions

Petitions have been taken out against Islamorada Councilmember Henry Rosenthal over a push to get the village planning director to poll the council for an amendment to establish a theater and entertainment venue. 

Deb Gillis, a former councilwoman who lost to Rosenthal in 2022 by five votes, has filed a complaint with the state Commission on Ethics. The Chair of the recall committee came in fifth in the race.

Petitions need about 532 signatures (10% of registereds) in 30 days.