California City Officials Ignore Recall Vote
In a surprising development, elected officials in California are going about their duties as if nothing has changed—despite a significant recall vote from the community. On April 28, Avenal, in Kings County, held a recall election that resulted in the ousting of Mayor Alvaro Preciado and three council members: Leticia Gamez, David Reynosa, and Pablo Hernandez. The removal was backed by over 76% of the voters in each case. The outcome was certified by the Kings County Registrar of Voters.
The recall movement gained momentum due to residents’ growing concerns about transparency and the council’s controversial decision to end its contract with the county fire department. Despite the clear message from constituents, Preciado, Gamez, and Hernandez voted on June 11 to remain in office, effectively disregarding the election results. They even went ahead to approve a new budget, contrary to a restraining order sought by recall advocates.
Amid claims of illegal proceedings in the recall by some officials, including Reynosa, Preciado has stated he would continue serving until a court determines the legitimacy of the recall. California’s Attorney General Robert Bonta, on June 11, opened the door for potential legal actions against the officials who are still in office.
Bonta expressed that if the allegations against the officials are accurate, they are not lawfully holding office. He emphasized that permitting elected representatives to disregard election outcomes is not in the public interest. In the wake of these events, residents have initiated legal actions against Preciado and the other council members while also participating in city council meetings.
Local resident Dalila Barajas, a recall supporter, remarked that with each meeting the council holds, public frustration increases as they continue to spend money irresponsibly. There seems to be a growing urgency for their resignation.
Criticism has arisen regarding the state attorney general’s perceived lack of action on this issue. Kings County Supervisor Richard Vallée remarked that if the situation involved “MAGA Republicans” refusing to resign, he believes authorities would have acted differently. Frustration is palpable; Vallée noted that he had never witnessed such a rapid city decline and called the lack of resolution embarrassing for both California and Avenal.
