This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This archival content was originally written for and published on KPCC.org. Keep in mind that links and images may no longer work — and references may be outdated.
Record low voter turnout reported in latest statewide general election
File photo of California Gov. Jerry Brown preparing to vote with his wife Anne Gust and dog Sutter Tuesday, June 3, 2014, in Oakland.
(
Ben Margot/AP
)
Recently certified statewide results show that just 42.2 percent of registered voters cast their ballots in the latest general election, a record low turnout for a regularly scheduled election.
The results of the Nov. 4 general election, which were certified Friday by California Secretary of State Debra Bowen, represent the lowest turnout for a general election, but a special election that attracted 36.4 voters to the polls in 1993 holds the record for the lowest turnout ever in a November statewide election.
“The number of Californians who cast ballots is certainly disappointing," Bowen said in a statement. "Every election is important, no matter what is on the ballot.”
Of 58 counties in the state, Los Angeles County fared the worst with a turnout of just 31 percent.
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
