Democratic Club

by Mary Larson

LW contributor

The Orange County Registrar of Voters will soon begin sending vote-by-mail ballots to all registered voters. Because of the state’s “Jungle Primary” voting system, any one vote by a Leisure World resident in the 2024 Primary Election could make the difference as to which candidates survive to run in the November General Election.

This relatively voting new system applies to California’s executive and legislative races as well the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives. In these races, the top two vote-getters in the Primary face off in the November General Election, regardless of their party affiliation.

Orange County local races are handled differently. Any candidate receiving more than 50% of the vote for the OC Board of Supervisors in a Primary Election is immediately elected. They do not have to run again in November.

All LW voters should be aware that there will be five candidatures seeking election to the Board of Supervisors on the upcoming Primary ballot. Four of these candidates are, or have been, registered Republicans. Dr. Frances Marquez is the only Democratic candidate running for this position and has been endorsed by the California Democratic Party, as well as the LW club.

There is only one Orange County board to which members are elected in a different manner. Membership on the OC Board of Education is determined by whomever gets the most votes in a primary election. Leisure World residents will not find this position on their ballot until 2026.

Gun safety laws will be the topic for the Feb. 21 Democratic Club voter education session in Clubhouse 3, Room 3 at 1 p.m. Registration for this session in advance is not necessary. All Democrats and supporters are welcome to attend, email Beverleybender@gmail.com for more information.

The Democratic Club’s Hospitality and Information Booth located outside Clubhouse 6 will be open on every Tuesday and Thursday from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. until the March Primary Election.

All LW Democrats and supporters are invited to subscribe to the club’s semi-monthly electronic newsletter by emailing mlarson. telfords@ gmail. com. It is important for people to include their name, address, phone number and political party registration in the request. If a request has not been answered email the club again or call editor Mary Larson at 562-296-8521.