California votes on 'none of the above' option

Backers of Proposition 23 say it would give voters who do not like any of the candidates on a ballot a chance to express their dissatisfaction

March 7, 2000
Web posted at: 10:49 a.m. EST (1549 GMT)

(CNN) -- Californians who don't like the candidate selection in future elections may get to make "none of the above" their official choice. A measure on Tuesday's ballot would give California voters the option of choosing "none of the above" on major state and federal elections.

Under the initiative -- listed on the California ballot as Proposition 23 -- the number of voters selecting "none of the above" would be reported in official election returns but would not affect the outcome of the election.

Prop 23 supporters say the idea is to let voters vent when they are displeased with the choices they're offered for a particular office, while still letting them vote in other contests.

Critics worry that votes cast for "none of the above" would siphon away support from third party candidates trying to provide alternatives to the major parties.

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If Prop 23 passes, it would take effect in November.

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Proposition 23 explained
CA Secretary of State - Primary Election 2000 - Proposition 23

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