Carl DeMaio’s Failed Attempts at a Voter ID Initiative
On Aug. 15, 2023, Carl DeMaio, a candidate for the 75th Assembly District seat in California, made headlines by announcing his plans to put a California voter ID initiative on the November 2024 ballot. The initiative aimed to restrict voting to individuals with a valid driver’s license or government-issued ID. However, despite the initial buzz around the initiative, DeMaio failed to gather the required signatures by the deadline.
This was not the first time DeMaio had attempted to push for a statewide voter ID initiative. Over the past few years, he had promoted similar initiatives but hadn’t been successful in collecting the necessary signatures to qualify for the ballot.
From fundraising efforts to recruiting volunteers, DeMaio had invested significant resources into his voter ID initiatives. However, suspicions arose about the true intentions behind his repeated attempts. Some speculated that DeMaio’s goal might be more about data collection than passing the actual ballot initiatives.
Despite his failed attempts, DeMaio remained optimistic about the future, with plans to refine the legislative text and gear up for another voter ID initiative in 2026.
DeMaio’s Strategic Approach
In a video released on Feb. 26, DeMaio outlined his rigorous methodology for launching ballot measures. His strategy involved gathering online signatures, recruiting volunteers, and raising millions of dollars to support the campaign. While the online signatures didn’t count towards the required number for the ballot, they served as a way to gauge public support for the initiative.
DeMaio’s ambitious goal was to recruit 250,000 volunteers across California to collect signatures and raise $3 million for the campaign. Despite facing challenges in funding and volunteer recruitment, DeMaio remained determined to press forward with his initiative.
DeMaio’s Political Background
As a Republican candidate vying for the 75th Assembly District seat, DeMaio had a history of engaging in various political movements, including the statewide gas tax repeal and the 2021 recall effort against Gov. Gavin Newsom. While he faced criticism from conservative activists for his involvement in these movements, DeMaio continued to pursue his political ambitions.
DeMaio’s persistence and dedication to his causes were evident, despite the setbacks he faced along the way. As he looked towards the future, DeMaio remained committed to his goals and the principles he believed in.
