Prop. 5 Would End the Recall Ballot’s Immediate Replacement Question

Overview

• The measure, placed on the November ballot by Democratic lawmakers, would remove the current second question that asks voters who should replace a recalled official.
• Under Prop. 5 the governor would call a special election within about four months to replace recalled state legislators and would appoint replacements for statewide offices until the next scheduled election.
• If the governor is recalled early in a term the secretary of state would call the special election and if the governor is recalled late the lieutenant governor would finish the term.
• Supporters and good-government groups say the change would reduce chaotic and costly recall campaigns; critics argue it shifts power to appointees, could leave constituents unrepresented for months, and may raise election costs.
• Polls show the measure trailing badly with a Public Policy Institute of California survey reporting 59% likely voters opposed and 35% in favor and reporters note little organized spending so far on either side.