In California’s November 3 election, you’re voting for new state leaders, deciding on 14 propositions to change state law, and weighing in on races and measures specific to your community.

As long as you’re registered, you can vote on any part of your November ballot.

California is picking a new governor. After a wild primary, the choices are now Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton.

One of the most important races is for insurance commissioner. This role affects all Californians, including how we respond to climate change and natural disasters. There are two Democrats running for the job. You can learn more about their positions in our insurance commissioner quiz.

Voters will decide on 14 propositions. The propositions include major issues that will change the lives of many Californians, including voter identification requirements, revisions to tax laws, and expanded access to low-cost mortgages. Take our proposition quizzes to see which choices match your views.

California’s midterm congressional elections feature redrawn maps. After Proposition 50 passed, the state redrew its voter district boundaries. You can find your congressional district and candidates in our guide to the U.S. House.

All 80 California Assembly seats are up for reelection, as well as 20 Senate seats (those from even-numbered districts). CalMatters is watching these key Assembly and Senate races.

CalMatters’ 2026 Voter Guide is here to help. We break down key races, tell you who’s bankrolling each campaign, help you register to vote and find your polling place, and give you all the other information you’ll need to make your vote count.

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

OCT 5

Ballots mailed to all active registered voters. You can also pick up a ballot (or drop one off) at an Early Voting site.

OCT 6

Secure ballot drop-off boxes open.

OCT 19

Last day to register to vote (or update your registration address) online to receive your ballot by mail. After October 19, you must complete same-day voter registration and request your ballot in person at your county election office or polling location.

OCT 27

Last recommended day to mail in your ballot at the post office.

OCT 31

At least one early voting in-person location will open in every county where you can vote or drop off your ballot.

NOV 3

ELECTION DAY

Check Registration
Register to Vote

Our Voter Guide is supported by:

What you need to know about voting

When will we know the election results?
Voting ends on November 3, but some races may not be decided for days or weeks. Read our article explaining why.

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 October 5. 

Other common questions:

Need help? Read all the questions we’ve answered about voting. Or ask your own.

START HERE: GOVERNOR

Credits

Your CalMatters 2026 Voter Guide is a team effort, made possible by the following:

Reporting: Ben Christopher, Nigel Duara, Kristen Hwang, Ana B. Ibarra, Carolyn Jones, Marisa Kendall, Jeanne Kuang, Nadia Lathan, Maya C. Miller, Levi Sumagaysay, Kate Wolffe, Yue Stella Yu, Mikhail Zinshteyn
Data and interactives: Mohamed Al Elew, Jeremia Kimelman, Shelly Tan
Design and art direction: Gabriel Hongsdusit
Election newsletter: Trevor Eischen
Events: Dan Hu, Martin Romero
Web development: Matt McVickar, Miles Hilton, John Holdun
Partnerships: Mary Franklin Harvin, Dan Hu
Social engagement and video: Anna Almendrala, Morelia Cadenas Gutierrez, Michael Lozano
Video: Fred Greaves, Miguel Gutierrez Jr., Adriana Heldiz, Mia Henry, Jungho Kim, Jeanne Kuang, Michael Lozano, Levy Sumagaysay, Robert Meeks
Translation and editing (Spanish): Teresa Frontado, Angel Rodriguez
Zine production: Ali Frances, Halona Leung, Ramsey Isler
Editing: Adam Ashton, John Osborn D’Agostino, John D’Anna, Andrew Losowsky, Soo Oh, Sisi Wei, Juliet Williams

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