Alameda, Measure B
Should Alameda County adopt the state’s recall rules?
Measure B would replace the county’s recall rules with those of the state. The change would raise the number of signatures needed to put a recall on the ballot, give the registrar more time to schedule recall elections, and make it so only elected officials — but not appointed officials — can be recalled. Passes with a majority vote.
Yes Argument
Approving this measure is good government housekeeping. Alameda County hasn’t held a recall election in decades and county attorneys say the current rules are sorely outdated and likely in violation of state and federal law, exposing the county to costly lawsuits. This change is long overdue, they argue, and would facilitate smoother elections and save the county money.
No Argument
Removing the right to recall appointed officials limits voter power. It would also give the county Board of Supervisors, rather than voters, the authority to appoint temporary replacements. Finally, changing recall rules amid the current effort to recall Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price is unfair to proponents of that effort who have planned their campaign strategy according to current rules.
Key Supporters
In Support
- League of Women Voters
- Alameda County Council
- Elisa Márquez, supervisor, Alameda County
- Lena Tam, supervisor, Alameda County
- Keith Carson, supervisor, Alameda County
- Rebecca Perata, board vice-chair, Alameda Chamber of Commerce
In Opposition
- Dan Haubert, supervisor, Alameda County
- Nate Miley, supervisor, Alameda County
- Saving Alameda for Everyone (campaign to recall Price)
- Alameda County Taxpayers Association