Tuolumne County voters have until 8 p.m. Tuesday to return their mail-in ballots for the statewide special election on Proposition 50. The measure questions whether California will redraw some congressional district maps in a way that favors Democrats.
County election officials reported receiving about 16,500 mail-in ballots by Monday, which represents approximately 45% of the county’s 36,473 registered voters. This turnout rate surpasses the statewide average, which stood near 29% as of Monday.
However, turnout in Tuolumne County is still lower compared to the last off-year statewide special election. In the September 2021 recall election of Governor Gavin Newsom, the county experienced about 73% voter turnout, which was significantly higher.
“We could be surprised and everybody shows up, but that doesn’t seem to be the pattern of this election.”
Debi Bautista, who is assisting with the election as an annuitant, indicated they do not anticipate a last-minute increase in voter participation sufficient to exceed the 2021 recall turnout, but preparations are in place for any outcome.
The turnout for Proposition 50 in Tuolumne County is currently above the statewide average but lower than the 2021 recall, with officials ready for any last-minute changes in voter activity.
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