Redding residents who reviewed the Shasta County Voter Information Guide this week discovered that the city clerk race was absent from the sample November ballot. The omission raised concerns because incumbent Sharlene Tipton, who filed candidacy paperwork earlier this year, is running unopposed and, under state law, should be listed on the ballot.
Election officials explain the requirements
Shasta elections official Clint Curtis told reporters he could not discuss the matter until Friday, but Erin Barnhart of the Redding City Clerk’s office confirmed that the race was slated to appear on the general‑election ballot. Barnhart noted that state election code requires any unopposed candidate to be listed unless the individual was appointed to fill the vacancy within 75 days of the election. Tipton’s appointment occurred in July 2023, well outside that window, so the rule applies.
Background on the clerk’s office
In July 2023, former clerk Pam Mize left office and Sharlene Tipton was appointed to serve the remainder of the term. Tipton filed the necessary paperwork to run for a full term in the November 2026 election and appeared on the qualified‑candidate list with no opponent. The city’s website also shows the race as scheduled for the upcoming ballot.
Why the sample ballot matters
The sample ballot is a key resource for voters preparing for Election Day. Its omission of the clerk’s race could lead to confusion or the mistaken belief that the position will not be voted on. Barnhart emphasized that the official ballot will include the race, and the county’s elections office is reviewing the discrepancy.
State office response
The California Secretary of State’s Office was contacted for clarification on how a missing race might affect the election. The office referred the inquiry back to the Shasta elections office, indicating that the county is the appropriate authority to resolve the issue.
Next steps
County officials plan to address the sample‑ballot error before the final ballot is printed. Voters are encouraged to stay informed through the official Shasta County elections website and to contact the elections office with any further questions.
This story is developing, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Original reporting: Shasta Scout (Redding) — read the source article.
