Democratic Club
by Mary Larson
LW contributor
The Sept. 14 election to recall Gov. Gavin Newsom is not a typical election. When the California Patriot Coalition launched an effort to recall Newsom in February 2020, their effort looked hopeless. Polls now show a tightening race.
Democrats have won every California statewide race since 2006. However, in a state with nearly 40 million people there are many grievances. As governor, Newsom has become a ready target for that resentment.
From the polls, it would appear that Republicans are expressing the most interest in voting in this election. Twenty-four of the 46 candidates running to replace Newsom are Republican. Democrats may be assuming that Newsom will beat back the challenge.
Potential voters registered as Democrats far outnumber Republicans in California. However, if Newsom were to be recalled because too few Democrats vote in the election, the possibility exists that a new governor would be chosen by only a small fraction of the electorate.
If there is a majority vote for recall of the Governor, the candidate with the most votes on the second question on the ballot would win the election, no majority required. Unfortunately, many Democratic voters do not realize they have the option of voting for a replacement candidate even when they vote “no” on the recall.
If Democrats do not vote in sufficient numbers to stop the recall, California could very well be governed by a Republican until 2023. Would it be conservative radio host Larry Elder or former San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer? They are currently the two Republican frontrunners. Should Democrats choose the least objectionable Republican in case Newsom is recalled? What effect would this have on the 2022 governor’s race? These are the questions LW Democrats need to ponder as they get ready to cast their Sept. 14 recall election ballots.
The Republican Party has decided not to make any endorsement. Party leaders reportedly admitted that they don’t want to alienate any voters who might not vote to recall Newsom if their favorite candidate was not endorsed by the party.
LW voters will be able to deposit their ballots at a secure drop box located at 13531 St. Andrews Drive, just in front of the Amphitheater. This drop box will be available 24 hours a day, beginning immediately after ballots are received. Democrats and supporters who need assistance delivering their ballot to the drop box can email democraticclubsblw@gmail.com or call (562) 296-8521. ••• Leisure World Democrats and supporters who are interested in more in-depth and up to date reporting on the issues can subscribe to the club’s electronic newsletter. There is no charge, although readers are encouraged to join the club if they are not already members. Email democraticclubsblw@gmail.com or call the editor Mary Larson at (562) 296-8521 to subscribe. More detailed information is also available every Tuesday from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Democratic Club booth located just outside Clubhouse 6.
