Newsom wins “Recall”: California remains in democratic hands

A victory in the democratic stronghold of California – this prospect put some Trump supporters in high spirits. But Governor Newsom survived the vote of confidence. But he can’t breathe a sigh of relief.

You can see the relief of Gavin Newsom when, an hour after the polls closed, he announced that he would remain in office. And he immediately names the reasons that, in his opinion, were decisive: a Yes to science, to vaccinations, to victory over the pandemic, to women’s rights, to diversity – “all the things that are important to us as Californians and Americans”.

As reported by the AP news agency, after counting 60 percent of the votes, around two thirds of Californians voted against voting. The Democrat Newsom had worked up a sweat in the past few weeks. 1.6 million Californians had petitioned for a “recall”, a vote of confidence, 100,000 more than would have been necessary. This gave them the opportunity to vote out the incumbent Governor Newsom – and in the event of a vote to appoint a new governor.

Paradise Lost?

Many voters, especially the Republican Party, had criticized his strict corona policy, such as David, who set up a booth in front of a polling station. He also criticizes homelessness and crime in the state. California is not improving – and that’s why many are moving away. “Some speak of Paradise Lost,” says David.

The most promising contender was Larry Elder, a podcast host who ran for the Republicans. In the event of a victory, for example, he would have abolished the mask and vaccination requirement. The black candidate also made a name for itself with controversial statements. For example, that there is hardly any more racism in the USA.

This was perhaps a touch too conservative for the more progressive-left California, even if Elder received the most votes in the field of opposing candidates. Elder admitted defeat.

Democrats speak of a waste of money

Democrat voters like John annoyed the “recall” – this was above all a waste of money, a political stunt.

It is partly questionable whether the governor’s opponents will accept the election result. Even before election day, there was speculation in conservative media such as Fox News about possible election fraud: “The only thing that Newsom can save is election fraud”, says Fox News presenter Tomi Lahren. In the US presidential election, too, many Republicans questioned the election results and took legal action, but the result was ultimately confirmed.

The Republican candidates will have another chance for office next year. The regular gubernatorial elections in California will take place on November 8, 2022.