October is a busy month for the Cloverdale Democratic Club. We are working hard to get out the vote for the November special election and we are also gathering signatures on the petition to put the SMART Initiative on the spring 2026 ballot.

California Proposition 50, also known as the Election Rigging Response Act, is a significant legislative measure that will be on the ballot for a special election on November 4, 2025. The measure would authorize temporary changes to California's congressional district maps in response to partisan redistricting efforts in Texas. If passed, the new maps will be used for the 2026 to 2030 elections. The California Citizens Redistricting Commission, which typically handles redistricting, will resume its duties after the 2030 Census. Unlike Texas's approach, California's law requires voter approval for extraordinary redistricting measures, emphasizing democratic participation. Watch for our canvassers encouraging people to vote, and contact us for yard signs, buttons and postcards.

The SMART Initiative (theSMARTinitiative.org) is a voter-led effort to extend the existing .25% sales tax for 30 years to protect our $1 billion investment and ensure rail and trail project completion to Cloverdale. With SMART funded to Healdsburg (expected to be completed in 2028), it's more important than ever to ensure the system has a secure local funding source for operations and completion. SMART ridership continues to break records. If you haven't ridden yet, go see what you're missing: seniors 65+ and students ride free. Watch for us collecting signatures at local events including the October 18th No Kings events. A petition is also available at the Cloverdale Chamber of Commerce Monday-Friday 10am-4pm (call 707-894-4470 to ensure availability).