The slow vote count in California’s June 2 primary gathered national attention due to President Trump’s focus on governor and Los Angeles mayor races. However, in rural Shasta County, a battle over election integrity is unfolding. Voters approved a measure that limits mail-in voting and mandates government-issued photo ID for voting.
California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley Weber have filed a lawsuit against Shasta County, arguing Measure B violates state laws and must be stopped before the November election. Bonta stated, “Measure B is legally indefensible.” The measure would restrict voting by mail and establish a separate voter registration system.
Rural election skepticism has been notable in Shasta County. In 2023, the Board of Supervisors chose hand-counting ballots instead of using voting machines amidst unfounded fraud allegations. They appointed Clint Curtis as registrar, who had previously made claims about rigged machines. Curtis reduced ballot drop boxes and encouraged Measure B, now a lawsuit defendant. Recently voted out, Curtis will be succeeded by Joanna Francescut in January.
“We don’t like the state laws. We want to enact our own local election reform,” stated Richard Gallardo, leader of Save Shasta Elections.
The lawsuit cites a previous case where Huntington Beach’s voter ID requirement was struck down. Urging a quick decision, it points to the need for uniform election rules and the upcoming mailing of voter information guides. As California prepares for its elections, Shasta County’s decision remains under scrutiny.