Prop 32 vote too close to call

With 53 percent of votes counted statewide (as of this Wednesday morning statement), California’s Proposition 32, which would raise the state’s minimum wage to $18 per hour, remains too close to call, according to a statement from Yes on 32!.

As results continue to come in, the Yes on Prop 32 campaign is closely tracking vote totals, with a wave of uncounted ballots from key counties where the measure is performing exceptionally well. Campaign leaders remain optimistic, noting that early returns show strong support in populous counties with many votes still outstanding.

“We’re encouraged by what we’re seeing so far and remain optimistic as more ballots are counted,” said Joe Sanberg, entrepreneur and lead proponent of Prop 32. “California voters have shown, time and again, their commitment to economic justice and fair wages. As additional vote totals come in from crucial counties, we are hopeful that Proposition 32 will secure the support needed to pass.”

Key counties with strong yes vote totals still outstanding
The campaign is monitoring several key counties where Prop 32 is outperforming expectations and could see additional Yes votes as counting progresses:

• Alameda County: With only 30 percent of the vote counted, Yes on Prop 32 is currently leading with 65 percent support. An estimated 500,000 votes remain to be counted here.
• San Francisco County: Yes votes are leading with 70 percent support, with approximately 200,000 votes still to be counted.
• Santa Clara County: Prop 32 is winning with 57 percent support, and another 400,000 votes are yet to be tallied.
• Riverside and San Bernardino counties: Yes on Prop 32 is exceeding polling expectations in these areas, a positive sign as additional results are expected to arrive.

Optimism fueled by younger voter turnout
Initial results suggest that the first 53 percent of votes counted skew toward older demographics, as indicated by underperformance of other measures favored by younger voters. With younger voters expected to strongly support Prop 32, the campaign anticipates additional support as ballots from this demographic are counted.

A milestone for California workers
If passed, Proposition 32 would raise wages for more than 2 million California workers, providing critical relief amid a rising cost of living crisis. This measure is not only popular but also essential for ensuring that working families can afford basic necessities in one of the country’s most expensive states. By setting the minimum wage at $18, California would again lead the nation in worker protections and economic dignity.

“We’re in this for the long haul,” said Sanberg. “Every vote matters in this fight for economic fairness, and we are determined to see it through. California voters are speaking up for dignity, fairness, and an economy that works for everyone, not just those at the top.”

The campaign will continue to monitor incoming votes and provide updates as results are finalized. For now, optimism remains high as Yes on Prop 32 inches closer to a possible victory, driven by overwhelming support from key California communities.