The Guardian World· World
This California town booted out its leaders – what happens if they refuse to leave?
Avenal has been rocked by the council’s refusal to accept the results of a recall election – and the repercussions extend far beyond the Central ValleyFrom the outside, the city of Avenal appears to embody every bit of its motto – an “oasis in the sun”. Approaching the community, passing through the dusty yellow hillsides of the Central Valley, Avenal emerges with a sudden burst of green on the ho
Published Thursday, 20 August 2026 at 13:00

Avenal has been rocked by the council’s refusal to accept the results of a recall election – and the repercussions extend far beyond the Central ValleyFrom the outside, the city of Avenal appears to embody every bit of its motto – an “oasis in the sun”. Approaching the community, passing through the dusty yellow hillsides of the Central Valley, Avenal emerges with a sudden burst of green on the horizon.Its small-town feel and quiet tree-lined streets offer respite from the bustling Interstate 5 some five miles away. But trouble is brewing here that has brought this lonesome city national attention. Continue reading...
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