Introduction to the 2016 California Democratic Primary

With the 2016 California Democratic Primary on June 7th being a crucial battleground in the race for the Democratic nomination, the contest between Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton saw intense debate and significant mail-in voting controversies. In this article, we'll explore the issues surrounding voter registration, electoral fraud, and the impact of the "Electoral College" on the outcome.

Challenges in Voter Registration and Counting

The integrity of the 2016 Democratic primary in California was called into question due to flawed voter registration processes and mail-in ballots. Even with the implementation of the 2010 California open primary system, inaccuracies in voter registration lists posed significant challenges to fair elections.

My wife and I ran a precinct in Los Angeles on that day, witness to an astonishing level of malicious mismanagement in the voter registration and election process. For example, we received mailings for two deceased individuals, one of whom passed away over a decade ago, and another living person who moved out of state nearly 15 years ago. These discrepancies indicate a serious lack of reliability in the voter lists and a deliberate undermining of the democratic process.

The current County voter mailings include an extensive list of potential proofs of residency for first-time voters, making it easier for ineligible individuals to register and vote. The population of Los Angeles County alone is larger than the combined population of 40 US states, highlighting the importance of accurate voter lists for ensuring fair representation.

Impact of the Electoral College and Party Influence

Another significant factor that shaped the 2016 primary is the Electoral College system, established by the US Constitution. The "Electoral College" has often overridden the popular vote, creating a situation where the will of the majority may not reflect the final outcome. In 1888, 1876, 2000, and 2016, the Electoral College has elected a candidate who did not receive the majority of the popular vote.

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) and Hillary Clinton's campaign team faced criticism for their alleged manipulation of the primary process. Despite these accusations, Hillary Clinton would still have won the nomination. However, the perceived corruption within the party system alienated many voters, leading some to vote for third-party candidates or abstain from voting, ultimately benefiting Donald Trump in the general election.

Controversies and Ongoing Implications

The Sanders campaign maintained that they received fewer votes than advertised, but the DNC and Clinton campaign admitted to deceptive practices. These actions contributed to a distorted view of the primary results and demonstrated the need for transparent and secure voting mechanisms.

While it is clear that Clinton would have been a better president than Trump, many voters, including myself, felt compelled to either support a third party choice or leave the presidential ballot blank due to the unnecessary corruption within the party. This decision ultimately led to Trump's unexpected victory in the general election.

The 2016 primary in California remains a subject of debate and reflects broader issues in the US democratic process. Ensuring accurate voter registration, reducing electoral irregularities, and maintaining the integrity of the primary system are crucial steps towards a more democratic and transparent political process.