SACRAMENTO — The campaign to recall state Sen. Roy Ashburn has stalled, pretty much before it had even begun.
The California Secretary of State's Office today said the Bakersfield businessman leading the effort has failed to submit enough valid signatures along with a notice of intention to recall the senator.Of the 51 signatures turned in, only 31 were from people registered in Senate District 18. That's nine signatures short. Michael Moore, a Libertarian and pharmacist, launched the campaign because he is upset that Ashburn, R-Bakersfield, voted for tax hikes as part of the recent state budget deal. He said he will refile the petition soon. But first he has to again serve Ashburn with a notice."It's going to happen fast," he said.If Moore submits enough signatures for the petition, he would then have to collect 42,376 more to put the measure on the ballot. Such efforts can get expensive. Moore said he hasn't raised any money yet."I'm obviously very naive and inexperienced in this whole process," he said.Ashburn was one of six Republican lawmakers to vote for the tax hikes. Others include Assembly GOP leader Mike Villines, R-Clovis, and Sen. Dave Cogdill, R-Modesto.The reporter can be reached at eschultz@fresnobee.com or (916) 326-5541.