Judge rules White can proceed with lawsuit challenging Stockton term limits

By The Record
September 18, 2012 12:28 PM
SACRAMENTO – Onetime mayoral candidate Ralph Lee White learned today that he may proceed with his lawsuit challenging Mayor Ann Johnston’s right to seek reelection in a dispute over term limits.

The ruling by U.S. Bankruptcy Judge Christopher Klein comes seven weeks before the Nov. 6 election, when Johnston and candidate Anthony Silva square off on the ballot.

The city did not oppose White, but asked that he not be allowed to collect attorney’s fees if he is victorious. Klein agreed.

White sued the city, arguing that the charter allows only two terms in city government. Johnston served two terms on the City Council and seeks a second term as mayor.

Read Wednesday’s Record for more on this story by staff writer Scott Smith.