California Appeals Court Fight Over Huntington Beach Voter ID

California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley Weber announced their intention to appeal the dismissal of a lawsuit challenging Huntington Beach's Measure A, which mandates voter identification for municipal elections starting in 2026. The state argued that this requirement could disenfranchise vulnerable populations and lacks evidence of widespread voter fraud. An Orange County Superior Court ruled that the lawsuit was 'not ripe for adjudication,' prompting Bonta and Weber to seek a swift decision from a state appellate court instead of amending their complaint. Measure A, supported by a majority of Huntington Beach voters, also allows for increased monitoring of polling sites. Critics, including state officials, contend that the measure is unnecessary and suppresses voter turnout, while supporters claim it ensures election integrity. The appeal comes as preparations for the 2026 elections are set to begin, highlighting the urgency of the legal challenge.