A recall is a voter-driven process to remove an elected official from office before their term ends. In Oregon, the only way to do this is through a formal recall election, which begins when citizens gather enough verified signatures to trigger a special election.

Unlike employees, elected officials cannot be fired. A recall is the check-and-balance tool that gives voters the power to decide if an official has lost public confidence and should be replaced.

Supporters see recalls as an important safeguard of democracy. Opponents argue they can be disruptive or misused. Either way, recalls give citizens the chance to re-evaluate the effectiveness and performance of their leaders once they are in office.

The process is not simple—it takes organization, signatures, and verification. More importantly, it reflects public opinion and ensures that voters, not political insiders, make the final call.

At the heart of a recall is voter responsibility. Each person must weigh the facts, consider both sides, and make their own decision at the ballot box. That’s democracy in action.