Californians, there are only a few days left until the 2021 California Gubernatorial Recall Election!
Voting is the core of our democracy because it ensures that citizens have an active voice in their government. So if you’re voting in person, make sure you submit your vote on or before September 14th. If you’re voting by mail, your ballot must be in by September 21st.
What brought on the recall election for Governor Newsom?
California’s Constitution included the power to recall its Governor in 1911. Since then, there have been a total of 54 attempts to recall a Governor. Only one has been successful, which was in 2003.
Additionally, the state of California has been a reliable blue state since 1992. However, that doesn’t mean there haven’t been attempts to skew the state red. Governor Newsom has faced criticism from Conservatives on topics like high taxes and homelessness. Despite that, a possible recall was not on the agenda until the COVID-19 pandemic. Many became angry at Newsom’s mask policy and the shut down of businesses. The outrage especially sparked when he dined out and broke his mask policy. Likewise, he was not in a hurry to re-open the state, unlike some states in the nation. Thus, many Republicans (and a few Democrats) pitched for a recall, which received the needed 1.5 million signatures to go through.
What has Newsom done for the state so far?
The best voter is the one that is aware of what their politicians have or have not done.
First, let’s start with education. During the pandemic, schools offered free lunch and breakfast to all students. This year, Newsom signed legislation to continue this program. As for criminal justice, Newson currently has a temporary ban on death row. New limits have also begun on the police force, making it difficult to legally justify the killing of citizens.
In terms of the economy, which has seen a detrimental impact since the pandemic, Newsom pushed for the most extensive economic stimulus in state history to aid in housing, debt relief, and education. Additionally, this also includes a band on evictions due to the virus.
In terms of the pandemic, due to Newsom’s efforts, California is currently the 12th most vaccinated state. Moreover, California has had a much better grip on the pandemic than states with the same population size.
So, who are the other candidates?
Even if you plan on voting “No” on your ballot, it’s still important to know the candidates making news headlines. Here are four candidates that have gained popularity amongst voters.
Larry Elder
Based on recent polls, Elder is the most popular choice out of the candidates. Larry Elder is a conservative radio host with quite the following on social media. However, both sides of the spectrum coined some of his stances as extreme. Elder has stated he opposes abortion rights (allowing states to decide restrictions on abortions) and gun control. He has also expressed that he wants to abolish the minimum wage (declared there shouldn’t be one) and mask regulation. On the less extreme side, he states he wants to legalize recreational drugs.
Additionally, Elder states he would solve homelessness by giving power to religious institutes and non-profit organizations.
So far, Elder has denied all debates against other candidates, saying, “The only person I want to debate is Newsom.”
John Cox
John Cox was a Republican nominee for the gubernatorial election in 2018.
Cox stated as Governor he would tackle homelessness by requiring mental illness treatments treatment, before providing housing. He has also supported a zero minimum wage and wants to lower the cost of energy by expanding gas and nuclear energy.
Cox has proposed to cut state income taxes by $30 billion and does not support mandatory vaccines.
Caitlyn Jenner
Former TV star Caitlyn Jenner received lots of media attention when she first announced her running.
Jenner has stated that as Governor, she would veto any tax increases, fully fund the police, and wants to see Trump return in 2024.
In terms of immigration, Jenner declared she would offer legal protection to those already in the state and those who have been residing in California for many years. However, Jenner would not allow for an open border and supports the U.S-Mexican border wall.
At first, Jenner had much attention on her at the beginning of her candidacy. However, she has now lost much support, especially compared to some of the other candidates.
Kevin Paffrath
Paffrath is currently the only Democrat with high polling.
He has stated he would address homelessness with a 60-day operation that would provide three meals a day, showers, and substance treatment. Paffrath would fully fund police departments in an attempt to reduce crime.
As for the virus, he would not impose any new bans but would not prohibit counties or cities from having their own bans. Paffrath has also proposed “Future schools.” He has stated that this would entail a 2-year program for anyone 16 and older. This program would combine college education, trade school, and high school.
It’s all about the numbers.
If more than 50% of voters vote “No,” Gavin Newson will remain Governor of California.
If more than 50% of voters vote “Yes,” Gavin Newson will no longer remain as Governor, and the candidate with the most votes will become Governor for the remainder of the term.
As a reminder to all who are eligible to vote, the election is quickly wrapping up. So, get informed and get ready to vote if you haven’t already!
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