By Hillel Aron

See also: Measure J Transit Tax — Too Soon?

Early returns show Measure J, the 30-year extension of the half-percent sales tax to fund public transportation, leading with 64% of the vote – just short of the 2/3 margin it needs to become law. Just under 400,000 early absentee ballots in LA County have been counted, according to the Registrar's website.

If passed, Measure J would accelerate the construction of a number of transit projects funded by Measure R, the 30-year, half-percent sales tax passed by LA County voters in 2008.

An internal poll obtained by LA Weekly showed the tax extension clinging to a 68% lead.

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