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Early Primary Could Cost County $11 Million

California has attracted more presidential hopefuls the past few weeks. The state has gotten more attention since shifting its presidential primary to February. But the change comes at a cost to the s

Early Primary Could Cost County $11 Million

California has attracted more presidential hopefuls the past few weeks. The state has gotten more attention since shifting its presidential primary to February. But the change comes at a cost to the state's counties. KPBS reporter Ed Joyce explains.

The state's presidential primary is adding complications and expenses. California's counties have to prepare for February and the statewide primary in June.

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Acting San Diego County Registrar Mischelle Townsend : The close proximity of the two primaries makes it complicated in terms of turning around 10-thousand voting units and preparing them for two close elections.

She says the presidential primary will cost the county about $11 million. Governor Schwarzenegger says the state will reimburse the counties. But there's no legal requirement mandating the state to do so.

The county is planning to use its current voting machines for the early primary. But Townsend says that could change. The Secretary of State's office is reviewing voting methods in California. Any changes could cost the county more money.

Ed Joyce, KPBS News.