California Launches Probe After Video Shows Petition Gatherers Offering Money for Signatures

California election officials have launched an investigation into potential illegal activities by petition gatherers in San Francisco.

“California launches probe after video shows petition gatherers offering money for signatures SACRAMENTO, Calif”

Associated Press

The California Secretary of State's office confirmed they are 'aware of, and investigating, the matter' after evidence emerged.

Associated Press

The investigation centers on claims that signature collectors were allegedly offering money for signatures.

Officials are examining whether the gatherers instructed people to use false names on ballot petitions.

The practices potentially violate election laws governing signature collection processes.

Video evidence posted on the social media platform X appears to show the alleged illegal activities taking place.

The footage captures a sign that reads 'Sign petition for $5' with a line of people waiting along the sidewalk.

Associated Press

A woman sitting at a folding table is shown instructing individuals on what name and address to use when filling out the petition forms.

When questioned about the purpose of the petitions, the woman responded with 'Just sign it.',

This response raised concerns about transparency and potential deception in the signature gathering process.

California law allows for the placement of measures on the ballot through the collection of hundreds of thousands of signatures.

“California launches probe after video shows petition gatherers offering money for signatures SACRAMENTO, Calif”

Associated Press

The state permits campaigns to compensate signature collectors on a per-signature basis.

This creates financial incentives for workers to gather as many signatures as possible.

The legal framework includes strict requirements about voter eligibility and accurate information collection.

The investigation raises questions about whether financial incentives led collectors to circumvent legal requirements.

At least one petition in the video was for a tech-backed ballot measure fighting a proposed tax on billionaires.

The measure is funded by Building a Better California, a political committee.

Associated Press

The committee was established by wealthy business leaders including Google co-founder Sergey Brin.

Sergey Brin contributed $20 million to the effort, according to campaign disclosures.

A spokesperson clarified that the signature collectors were not directly employed by the campaign.

This suggests they may have been working for a separate petition gathering firm.

This distinction could be important for determining legal responsibility for any violations.