FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
01. What is a recall election?
A recall election occurs when enough registered voters residing in a district sign a petition stating they want the elected official to be recalled. The number of registered voters required is stated in Oregon Revised Statute 249.870
02. Who pays for a recall election?
The district where the recall is occurring is responsible for paying the cost of the recall election.
03. Is an elected official considered to still be in office while a recall election is underway?
Yes, during the petition gathering process and through certification of election, the elected official is authorized to conduct the duties of that office.
04. How many votes are needed to recall an elected official?
The number of votes needed for a recall to be successful is 50% plus one. In other words, if 200 registered voters cast ballots, 101 votes need to be in favor of recalling the elected official.
05. If the recall of an election official fails, what happens next?
If the number of votes necessary to recall the elected official is not reached, the elected official remains in office for the remainder of their term.
06. How long will it take to determine if an individual has been recalled?
In Oregon, individuals may return their ballots by mail. These postmarked ballots must be received by seven days after an election to be valid. After that date, the Clatsop County Clerk has until the 27th day after the election to certify the election results. ORS 254.546(1)
07. If an elected official is recalled, can they run again for that same office?
The recalled official may not file for the remainder of their term but may refile for a brand-new term when it is next on the ballot.
08. If an elected official is recalled, when do they leave office?
The elected official leaves office as soon as the election is certified.
09. How is an election certified?
The Clatsop County elections director declares that the tabulation and canvassing of the election are complete and accurate and that the election results are a true and accurate accounting of all votes cast in a particular election.
Depending upon the number of candidates, measures, and votes cast, the certification process can take up to 27 days to complete. ORS 254.545(3)
10. If an elected official is recalled, how and when is the vacancy filled?
If the recall is successful, the position becomes vacant and is filled in accordance with state statute, local charter or ordinance.
11. If the majority of elected officials on a board is recalled, what is the process to fill the vacant positions?
The Clatsop County Board of Commissioners shall appoint enough district members to create a quorum. At that point, the newly constituted district board members may make appointments to fill the remaining vacant positions.