Kern County residents are raising concerns about the integrity of local elections following discussions at the Board of Supervisors meeting on May 20, 2025. Citizens voiced their worries over the handling of voter registration data and the potential for fraud, citing discrepancies in voter turnout figures from the 2020 election.

During the meeting, community members highlighted that California's participation in the Electronic Registration Information Center (ERIC) has led to significant privacy concerns. They argue that the state has shared sensitive information, which could be manipulated, leaving voters vulnerable. For instance, while the Secretary of State reported over 17 million votes in the 2020 election, local data indicated a shortfall of more than 750,000 votes, raising alarms about unaccounted voters.

Retired Marine Charles Shin emphasized the importance of transparency in the voting process, referencing a memorandum from the Secretary of State that outlines reporting requirements for voting system defects. He pointed to past incidents in Kern County where technical failures disrupted voting, urging the board to ensure better oversight and accountability in future elections.

Additionally, Dennis McLean addressed recent changes in voter registration requirements, expressing concern that these modifications could lead to incomplete voter rolls and increased opportunities for fraud. He urged the board to oppose state control over local voter registration processes, advocating for more stringent measures to protect the integrity of elections.

The discussions reflect a growing demand among Kern County residents for greater transparency and security in the electoral process. As the board considers these concerns, the implications for future elections and voter trust remain critical. The community awaits a response from the Board of Supervisors on how they plan to address these pressing issues.