California Voter ID Supporters Sue Attorney General Rob Bonta Over Ballot Language

Supporters of California‘s voter ID initiative have filed a lawsuit against Attorney General Rob Bonta, accusing him of attempting to influence the outcome of November’s election by rewriting the ballot title and summary for Proposition 39 in a way they say unfairly prejudices voters against the measure.

The lawsuit, filed by the Protect Voters Coalition, argues that Bonta replaced the initiative’s original title, “Voter Identification, Citizenship Verification, and Registered Voter List Administration Initiative,” with language emphasizing “restricting voting” and “requiring government-issued identification.” Supporters contend the revised wording is politically charged and designed to discourage voter support before ballots are even cast.

Proposition 39 would require voters to present a government-issued photo ID when voting in person, provide identifying information when casting mail ballots, require election officials to maintain accurate voter registration lists, and direct the state to provide free voter identification cards to eligible voters who request one. Backers argue the proposal would strengthen election integrity while ensuring every eligible voter has access to a free ID.

The plaintiffs are asking the court to order Bonta to restore what they describe as a neutral and accurate ballot title and summary before ballots are finalized. They argue California law requires the attorney general to provide impartial language rather than wording they believe advocates against a ballot measure.

Bonta’s office has defended the revised language, maintaining that the ballot title and summary accurately describe the legal effects of the initiative and comply with California law. State officials have rejected accusations that the wording is intended to influence voters, saying the revisions are part of the attorney general’s standard review process.

The legal challenge marks the latest battle over Proposition 39, which has become one of California’s highest-profile ballot measures ahead of the November election. The dispute follows earlier clashes between Republican supporters and Democratic leaders over voter identification, election security, and the language voters will see when they cast their ballots.