Controversy Erupts Over Election Ballot Seizures in Riverside County

Sun Mar 22 2026 20:30:01 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time)

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco's investigation into an alleged ballot count discrepancy during a special election raises concerns about election integrity and partisanship as he runs for governor.

Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco has seized over half a million ballots from the county's election office, claiming there is a discrepancy in the vote count from a recent special election. Bianco's actions have drawn criticism from state officials who argue that such a move undermines trust in the electoral process. The Attorney General's office has stated that Bianco's investigation appears politically motivated, coinciding with his campaign for governor in California's upcoming primary.

RIVERSIDE, Calif. — Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, a prominent Republican and candidate for governor, has seized over half a million ballots from county election officials, claiming to investigate discrepancies in the ballot count from a special election held in November 2025. The election's outcome had led to significant changes in congressional district lines, favoring Democratic candidates.

Bianco's action has ignited a firestorm of controversy, as California Attorney General Rob Bonta described the seizure as unprecedented and potentially damaging to public trust in the electoral system. Bonta criticized the sheriff's motives, suggesting that his actions are designed to fuel distrust among voters.

The ballot count in question involves nearly 1,000 boxes taken from the county's elections office, with Bianco citing a citizens group's complaint about discrepancies reported between handwritten intake logs and the official tally of votes reported to the state. Bianco asserts that the discrepancy could amount to approximately 45,800 votes, a claim that county officials have refuted, stating the actual difference is around 100 votes.

During a press conference, Bianco emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough count to ensure electoral integrity. He referred to the endeavor as a fact-finding mission, saying, This investigation is simple: Physically count the ballots and compare that result with the total votes reported. Meanwhile, Bonta has reiterated that Bianco's office lacks the qualifications to conduct a proper recount.

This investigation has emerged in the context of a larger political battle, with concerns that a divided Democratic primary could inadvertently place Bianco or another Republican candidate in a strong position for the November general election. In a state that has consistently leaned Democratic, this potential outcome raises alarm bells for many party leaders, who worry about the implications for electoral balance in California.

As investigations continue, both the sheriff's office and election officials remain at an impasse, with a court-appointed special master now involved to oversee the recount process. Sheriff Bianco maintains that his commitment to investigating potential electoral crimes remains nonpartisan, despite implications of political maneuvering in light of his gubernatorial aspirations.