Shirley Weber Stands Firm Against Election Lies and Voter Suppression in California

California’s top elections official is facing arguably the toughest job in the state’s history. Shirley Weber, the incumbent Secretary of State, is running for reelection amid a barrage of disinformation, legal battles, and political pressure designed to undermine democracy itself.

Weber’s role has become a frontline defense against the Trump administration’s ongoing assault on voting rights. Last year, Donald Trump sued to force California to hand over sensitive voter data, including Social Security numbers and political affiliations, in a transparent attempt to intimidate voters and sabotage elections. A federal judge rightly rejected this reckless lawsuit. Now, Trump is pushing to ban voting by mail nationwide — a move that would disproportionately disenfranchise millions.

But California is no safe harbor from election denialism. This November, voters will decide on a ballot measure requiring voter ID at the polls, a solution in search of a problem given the lack of evidence for widespread fraud. Meanwhile, internal conflicts among county election officials and reckless actions by conservative figures like Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, who seized hundreds of thousands of ballots following baseless fraud allegations, have added to the turmoil.

In this chaotic environment, Weber’s steady hand is indispensable. The San Francisco Chronicle’s editorial board praises her for her unwavering commitment to following the law and ensuring fair elections. Notably, Weber stood up to Governor Gavin Newsom — who appointed her — when he tried to bypass legal deadlines during his recall election, ultimately winning the case and preserving election integrity.

Unlike her opponents, Weber does not seek to exploit unfounded fears. Republican challenger Don Wagner openly admits that voter confidence is low but seems intent on stoking those fears rather than calming them. Meanwhile, Green Party candidates focus more on electoral reform platforms than the nuts and bolts of running secure elections.

Weber’s leadership also means owning up to mistakes. When a state voter guide misnumbered a congressional district during a special election, she ordered correction postcards sent to voters rather than sweeping the error under the rug. She made the tough call to scrap a flawed campaign finance portal overhaul started by her predecessor, ensuring a better system at a higher cost — because doing it right matters.

Her personal history — shaped by her parents fleeing lynching in the Jim Crow South — fuels her fierce advocacy for voting rights and democratic accountability. In these perilous times, California needs a secretary of state who stands unflinchingly for democracy, not one who panders to conspiracy theories or political expediency.

The San Francisco Chronicle’s endorsement of Shirley Weber is a call to voters to support a proven defender of fair elections and transparent governance. Reelecting Weber means choosing competence, courage, and a commitment to democracy over chaos and cynicism.