Video Sparks Investigation into Alleged Ballot Petition Fraud in California

Signature collectors accused of paying people to sign petitions under other names

Mar. 11, 2026 at 11:52pm

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A video circulating online appears to show signature collectors in San Francisco paying people $5 to sign initiative petitions under other people's names, prompting an investigation by the California Secretary of State's office. The video, filmed by a videographer, shows a long queue of people waiting to sign petitions for at least three ballot campaigns, including a billionaire-backed effort to thwart the state's proposed billionaire tax. Officials say the activity shown, if verified, would violate California election law.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about potential voter fraud and the integrity of the ballot initiative process in California. The alleged actions, if true, could undermine public trust in the democratic process and raise questions about the validity of the petitions involved.

The details

The video shows a table set up at 6th and Mission streets in San Francisco where a woman is instructing people to sign petitions using the names and addresses of apparent registered voters. The videographer says he approached people in line who told him they didn't know what they were signing, they just wanted the $5 payment. The video also showed voter data from San Luis Obispo County that was visible and audible. Officials in that county have launched an investigation through the California Secretary of State's fraud unit.

  • The video was filmed on March 9, 2026.
  • San Luis Obispo County officials became aware of the video and initiated an investigation on March 10, 2026.

The players

JJ Smith

A videographer who filmed the scene and reported witnessing similar activity with ballots a few days prior.

Erin Clausen

Public information officer for the San Luis Obispo county clerk's office, which initiated an investigation after becoming aware of the video.

Elaina Cano

San Luis Obispo County Clerk-Recorder, who stated that the activity shown in the video, if verified, would violate California election law.

Molly Weedn

Spokesperson for the political committee Californians for a More Transparent and Effective Government, which had petitions involved in the alleged fraud and has taken immediate action to distance itself from the activity.

Building a Better California

A group that funded the Californians for a More Transparent and Effective Government committee, whose petitions were also allegedly involved in the fraud.

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What they’re saying

“I approached some people and asked them what they were there for. They told me they didn't know what they were signing for, that they just wanted the $5.”

— JJ Smith, Videographer

“The activity shown in the video, if verified, would violate California election law.”

— Elaina Cano, San Luis Obispo County Clerk-Recorder

“Under no circumstance do we tolerate this type of activity in the signature gathering process. We've taken immediate action and have demanded that the signature gathering firm identify these circulators and reject their petitions.”

— Molly Weedn, Spokesperson, Californians for a More Transparent and Effective Government

What’s next

The California Secretary of State's office is continuing its investigation and is working with local officials. Anyone with information is encouraged to file a complaint with the Secretary of State's office or their local county elections office.

The takeaway

This case highlights the importance of maintaining the integrity of the ballot initiative process in California. The alleged actions, if true, could undermine public trust in the democratic process and raise concerns about potential voter fraud. It serves as a reminder of the need for robust safeguards and oversight to ensure the fairness and legitimacy of ballot measures.