(CALMATTERS) – As long as the U.S. has held elections, there have been mishaps — yes, even in 1789. This year is no different. Here’s what we’re seeing in California as Nov. 8 approaches:
- In Riverside County, 5,000 voters in Canyon Lake, Menifee, Murrieta, Wildomar and Winchester received duplicate ballots due to a computer error. Officials reassured the public that those voters’ ballots won’t be counted more than once, and that the error has been fixed.
- In Los Angeles County, a software company executive was arrested in an investigation into the possible theft of personal identifying information of election workers. There was no impact on ballots, according to District Attorney George Gascón’s office: “In this case, the alleged conduct had no impact on the tabulation of votes and did not alter election results. But security in all aspects of any election is essential so that we all have full faith in the integrity of the election process.”
- 780 voter guides were found in recycling bins in Elk Grove and redelivered on Oct. 19. The Sacramento County Voter Registration and Elections Department said in a statement that it is “working closely with local, state, and federal officials to investigate how this incident occurred and are working on preventing any future incidents.”
Mishaps don’t equal fraud. But it can shake some voters’ confidence in the process. This comprehensive CalMatters explainer has more on how officials try to keep your vote safe.
If you see something suspicious, you can report it to your county elections office or the Secretary of State’s office. You can also contact Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Khasigian, who on Thursday was named district election officer for California’s Eastern District based in Sacramento. Khasigian will work with the federal Justice Department to oversee complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Scott will prepare for and respond to digital election threats. Khasigian can be reached at (916) 554-2700 or (916) 554-2723.