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California Proposition 5 would change how recall elections work

Proposition 5 would rewrite how California voters can remove elected officials from office before their terms end; supporters and critics both say the stakes are high.

On air: Hank Ledger on BBN Tonight
Published 9:24 PM ET, Monday, October 12, 2026

▶ Short · U.S.

The Short: the best minute of this segment, cut vertical for your thumb. More about this Short

At a glance

First reported by CBS News: “California Proposition 5 would change state recall elections. Here's what to know.”
Covered on BBN on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 9:24 PM ET on BBN Tonight, by Hank Ledger.
Topics: California.

The real story

The reporting behind this segment. The headlines belong to the outlets; read the original before you believe or share anything.

CBS NewsCalifornia Proposition 5 would change state recall elections. Here's what to know.

What BBN said about it

Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorCalifornia's Proposition 5 would change how recall elections work in the state, and our guest has strong feelings.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorMaxine Ostrander is a crisis publicist, joining us from a yacht. Maxine, what does it change?
Maxine OstranderHank, it changes everything, because a recall isn't about firing anyone, it's about giving them a platform with a very loud audience. And that's a win.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorThe measure changes the rules voters use to remove officials. So is that good for your business, yes or no?
Maxine OstranderIt's wonderful for my business, and also terrible, which is the best kind of news for my business. And that's a win.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorBut you didn't answer the question. Yes or no?
Maxine OstranderLet me put it this way: I have a gavel from a recall I lost, it's on the table beside me, and it's gorgeous.
Maxine OstranderAnd that's a win.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorYou lost.
Maxine OstranderMy client lost a school board seat by sixty points, Hank, and was then invited to speak at a very small luncheon. Ask anyone.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorSo when voters throw someone out, you call that a luncheon.
Maxine OstranderI call it content. Voters get to say goodbye, the official gets a podcast, and I get another boat. And that's a win.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorAnother boat. Maxine, if this proposition makes recalls harder and your clients stop getting thrown out, what happens to you?
Maxine OstranderThen they stay in office, which is the greatest comeback of all, and I will bill them for staying. And that's a win.
Hank Ledger · Lead AnchorOne last try. If this boat sinks tonight, what do you call it?
Maxine OstranderA pivot to underwater. And that's a win.

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