2026 is shaping up to be a dramatic election year in California and across the U.S.
The governor’s race is wide open. Gavin Newsom is term-limited, which means he can’t be governor for a third term in a row. There’s no shortage of candidates trying to take his place. In fact, there are so many Democrats in the race that some experts say they could split the vote enough in June’s primary to allow the two Republicans to advance.
California’s midterm congressional elections will be using redrawn maps. After Proposition 50 passed, the state redrew its district boundaries, giving the advantage to Democrats in five of the nine California congressional seats currently represented by Republicans. Flipping enough of those seats could hand Democrats control of the U.S. House for the second half of President Donald Trump’s second term, effectively halting his legislative agenda. Midterm elections traditionally punish the party in power.
All 80 California Assembly seats are up for reelection, as well as 20 Senate seats (those from even-numbered districts). And in the November general election there will be a lot of ballot propositions, including the so-called “billionaires tax” and a potential measure to require voter ID.
CalMatters’ 2026 Voter Guide is here to help. We’ll help you register to vote and find your polling place, and soon, we’ll break down each key race in the state, tell you who’s bankrolling each campaign, and give you all the information you’ll need to make your vote count. Be the first to know every time we update this voter guide.
Why trust us?
CalMatters has been reporting on what voters need to know in California elections for more than a decade. Our journalism is nonpartisan and independent from commercial or political interests. Read more about us.
Key Dates
May 4
Your county elections office will begin mailing out June 2 primary ballots. You can also pick up a ballot (or vote) at an Early Voting site.
May 5
Secure ballot drop-off boxes open.
May 18
Last day to register online to vote for the primary election. After May 18, you must complete same-day voter registration and request your ballot in person at your county election office or polling location.
May 23
Vote centers open for early in-person voting in all Voter’s Choice Act counties.
June 2
PRIMARY ELECTION 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Does everyone get a ballot in the mail?
Yes. Under state law, vote-by-mail ballots are sent to every active registered voter.
When will I receive my mail-in-ballot?
Counties will begin mailing ballots by May 4.
Can I vote in person? Where is my polling place or vote center?
Yes, though mailing your ballot as soon as possible is the best way to get your vote counted fast. You can find out where to vote in the following ways:
- Check online
- Text “VOTE” to GOVOTE (468-8683)
- Call the secretary of state’s hotline at (800) 345-VOTE
- Check your county Voter Information Guide, or contact your county elections office
If you live in one of 30 counties, you’ll have increased options, including as many as 10 days of in-person early voting.
How can I track my ballot?
Register for California’s BallotTrax tool, where you can check your ballot status and opt in to receive email or text notifications.
Is my ballot safe?
Yes, voting by mail or dropping your ballot in an approved drop box is a safe and efficient way to vote. Fraudulent voting is uncommon and incredibly difficult given California’s strict voter verification procedures. Mail-in ballots will only be sent to voters whose address and identity have been verified by county election officials. Their vote will only be counted once those officials verify that the voter’s signature on the envelope matches the one they have on file.
You can find more trusted information about California’s election and voting process on the secretary of state’s website. The office takes any allegations of election fraud seriously. Anyone can submit a complaint using this form.