Measure DD: The Battle Over Noncitizen Voting in Santa Ana - A Potential Game Changer!

In a controversial move that could reshape the voting landscape, Santa Ana is set to decide on Measure DD in the upcoming November elections. This measure proposes allowing noncitizens to vote in city elections, igniting a heated debate among residents, officials, and experts alike. As the voting period unfolds, the implications of this measure extend beyond local borders, potentially influencing similar initiatives across California and the nation.

The Backstory: How Measure DD Came to Be

Measure DD's journey has been anything but smooth. It was placed on the ballot following a narrow 4-3 vote by the City Council, which opted to override recommendations from city staff regarding the measure's wording. This decision sparked controversy, leading to a significant legal challenge that would alter the course of the campaign.

Legal Challenges and Changes

In a pivotal ruling, Orange County Superior Court Judge Kimberly A. Knill determined that the original wording of Measure DD was biased and illegal, violating the California Elections Code. This ruling mandated the removal of prejudicial language that had been designed to sway voters in favor of the measure. The revised, more neutral language is now what voters will see on their ballots.

The Landscape of Opposition

Despite the legal adjustments, a formidable coalition has formed against Measure DD:

• Mayor Valerie Amezcua: The Santa Ana Mayor has publicly opposed the measure.
• Santa Ana Police Union: They are actively campaigning against it, reportedly spending $9,000 on outreach efforts.
• Business Community PAC: A group named "Save Santa Ana," supported by local real estate interests, has joined the opposition, including 'No on DD' in their communication against other measures on the ballot.
• Prominent Residents: Many influential residents have signed ballot arguments opposing the measure, adding to the momentum against it.

The Missing Campaign for Measure DD

Curiously, aside from the ballot arguments, there has been little to no visible campaign in support of Measure DD. Unlike traditional campaigns that leverage signs, phone calls, door-to-door canvassing, and digital advertising, the proponents seem to be absent from the public sphere. This lack of visibility raises questions about their strategy and commitment to the measure.

The Stakes: National Implications

As Santa Ana grapples with this contentious issue, the outcome of Measure DD could set a precedent for similar initiatives across California and potentially influence national discussions on noncitizen voting rights. James V. Lacy, who played a crucial role in the legal challenge against the measure's original text, stated, "It looks to me like the proponents of noncitizen voting in Santa Ana were relying entirely on rigged ballot language to pass their measure...and it looks like Measure DD is going to lose." This statement underscores the high stakes involved, not just for Santa Ana but for broader voting rights conversations across the country.

What do you think?

• Should noncitizens be allowed to vote in local elections? Why or why not?
• How do you feel about the role of local government in shaping voting rights?
• Is this measure a step towards inclusivity or a threat to democratic values?
• What impact could the outcome of Measure DD have on future voting legislation in California?
• Are the concerns raised by opponents justified, or are they rooted in fear-mongering?

Your thoughts and opinions matter! Join the conversation and share your perspective on this pivotal issue. The future of voting in Santa Ana—and potentially beyond—hangs in the balance!