California Attorney General Rob Bonta has stated that the Avenal recall dispute should be handled at the local level, as four recalled officials refuse to step down. - Voters in Avenal recalled the mayor and three city council members in late April, but the officials have not vacated their seats.
- The officials cite low voter turnout and claim voters were misled about the recall petition. - The standoff echoes a 2024 case in Tulare County's Orosi Public Utilities District, where state intervention led to recalled board members stepping down.
- Kings County District Attorney Sarah Hacker received a letter from Bonta's office indicating the matter should be resolved locally. The Avenal City Council is expected to discuss the issue on Thursday.