How Chad Bianco got warrants to seize CA election ballots
CalMatters • • nation
Key Points:
- Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco obtained search warrants to seize 650,000 ballots from the 2025 California election based on claims from an activist group alleging voter fraud, despite lacking insider tips, witnesses, or forensic analysis.
- The county’s top elections official and independent experts criticized the claims as flawed and unsubstantiated, with some experts questioning the sufficiency of evidence presented to justify the unprecedented ballot seizure.
- The warrants were initially kept secret but were unsealed following court orders after media petitions; meanwhile, the California Supreme Court halted Bianco’s investigation amid legal challenges citing lack of probable cause.
- Critics argue the sheriff’s reliance on an activist group’s allegations without proper verification undermines election integrity and appears politically motivated, while supporters contend the discrepancies warrant investigation.
- The controversy reflects broader national tensions fueled by unfounded voter fraud claims linked to former President Trump’s movement, raising concerns about potential interference in future elections.
