Newsoms push for swift action on redistrict vote leaves counties scrambling to prepare

California is gearing up for a special election on November 4 to decide on Governor Gavin Newsom's proposed congressional district maps. With less than 75 days' notice, election officials are facing logistical challenges, including securing vendors for ballot printing and locating vote centers. Juan Pablo Cervantes, registrar for Humboldt County, emphasized the difficulties of planning without adequate lead time. Newsom's maps are intended to counter Republican strategies that could favor the GOP in future elections. County officials are advocating for state funding to cover the costs of this unplanned election, warning that cuts to public services may be necessary otherwise.

Orange County's registrar has already begun preparations, prioritizing the acquisition of essential voting supplies. The last short-notice special election in California was in September 2021, during a recall effort against Newsom. Early warning signs from that recall campaign provided counties with more preparation time than they currently have.