Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, a Republican candidate for California governor, seized more than 650,000 ballots from the state’s November 2025 special election to investigate claims of vote irregularities. The move defies California’s top election officials, who have dismissed allegations of excess votes in the Proposition 50 contest.
Investigation Launched Over Alleged Vote Discrepancies
Bianco initiated the investigation after the Riverside Election Integrity Team, a third-party group, reported approximately 45,000 more votes than expected in the Proposition 50 election, which focused on redrawing congressional districts. Bianco stated his office will conduct a physical recount to compare the actual ballots with official vote totals. He emphasized that this step is intended to clarify the true count amid the dispute.
California Secretary of State Shirley Weber and Riverside elections official Art Tinoco have strongly rejected the team’s findings. Weber argued that the sheriff’s office lacks authority and expertise in election administration, warning that the investigation could undermine public trust. Tinoco said the initial vote estimates at polling places are approximate and noted the official tally deviated by only 0.16% from those estimates.
Official Pushback and Political Tensions
Bianco accused Democratic Attorney General Rob Bonta of attempting to halt the investigation through multiple cease-and-desist letters. Bonta’s office said it merely sought information on the probe’s basis. Bianco criticized Bonta publicly on social media and reaffirmed his commitment to continue the recount despite official objections.
The Proposition 50 measure was approved by voters, temporarily altering California’s congressional district maps in a way viewed as favorable to Democrats following similar efforts by Republicans in Texas. The election dispute has intensified political friction as Bianco, who leads Republican gubernatorial polls, challenges state officials and Democratic rivals, including Rep. Eric Swalwell, who is also running for governor.
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