Election Protection

California Common Cause continued its Election Protection program in the June 2018 primary election. In this effort, we also observed the launch of the Voter's Choice Act in 3 counties (San Mateo, Sacramento, and Napa) while monitoring pollworker conduct and general election administration practices. Based on our observations, we developed this report to highlight some best practices and recommendations to address common issues we observed.

The nonpartisan Election Protection coalition was formed to ensure that all voters have an equal opportunity to participate in the political process. Election Protection is the nation’s largest non-partisan voter protection coalition. Through the 1-866-OUR-VOTE hotline (administered by the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law), the 1-888-Ve-Y-Vota hotline (administered by the National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials Education Fund), and a comprehensive legal field deployment, Election Protection helps ensure eligible voters are able to participate in our democracy. For questions, contact Sylvia Moore, Southern California Organizer.

California Common Cause announceds its efforts to ensure voters’ rights are protected on Election Day

Today, Governor Jerry Brown signed legislation authorizing counties to adopt a voter-centered approach to elections. Senate Bill 450, authored by Sen. Ben Allen and sponsored by Secretary of State Alex Padilla, provides voters with many more options for how they can vote, recognizing the changing needs of voters today. Common Cause supported the bill.

In boosting local voter turnout, SB 415 is an important step in strengthening our democratic system.

Today Governor Brown signed into law Senate Bill 439, authored by Senator Ben Allen, which will expand the availability of same-day voter registration in the 14 days leading up to election day. Same-day registration allows an eligible voter to register to vote then vote on the same day in the two weeks leading up to an election.