CA Primary Conflicts With Rosh Hashanah

At the recommendation of the Orange County, California Registrar of Voters, the Governor's office has scheduled an important primary election in conflict with the Jewish High Holy Days. The Los Angeles Times reports today that the primary election to replace Rep. Chris Cox, new chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, has been scheduled for October 4, the first day of Rosh Hashana. Observant Jews would be unable to vote on that day. Though posing somewhat less of a conflict for adherents, October 4 is also the first day of the Muslim month-long fast of Ramadan. Jewish groups have complained about the conflict, but Orange County Voting Registrar Steve Rodermund said that absentee voting and voting early at the registrar's office in Santa Ana are available alternatives.