What is the procedure for initiating a recall election of a municipal official?

In California, the procedure for initiating a recall election of a municipal official is established in the California Elections Code. If a group of citizens wish to recall a municipal official, they must first gather signatures from a substantial portion of the voters who reside within the jurisdiction of that official. The number of signatures required to initiate the recall process depends on the population of the jurisdiction. Next, the signatures must be verified by the county elections office. Once the signatures are verified, the elections office will set a date for a recall election. In addition to gathering signatures, the citizens initiating the recall must draft a statement that explains the reasons why they are seeking to recall the official. This statement will appear on the ballot alongside the official’s name. The recall election will occur on the previously scheduled date, and voters will vote yes or no on the recall. If the majority of voters choose to recall the official, another election will be held to fill the vacancy. Once a recall election is initiated, the official being recalled has the right to prepare and circulate a statement of rebuttal. This statement must address the reasons listed in the recall statement and can be distributed to all registered voters of the jurisdiction. The process of initiating a recall election is lengthy and complex, and the recall may or may not succeed. If the recall is successful, the official who was subject to the recall may be eligible to run in the election to fill the vacancy, unless other restrictions apply.

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What is the procedure for initiating a recall election of a municipal official?

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