This Election Matters
A statewide primary election is scheduled to take place in California on June 2, 2026.
Primary elections decide who gets the chance to run in November.
Because only the top two candidates move forward, this election can shape who represents your community, influence what issues are prioritized, and determine whose voices are heard at the state and national level.
Who is Eligible to Vote?
You can vote in California if you are:
- A U.S. citizen
- A California resident
- 18 years old on or before Election Day
- Not currently serving a state or federal prison sentence for a felony
- Registered to vote
Important Dates & Deadlines
May 4, 2026
- Vote-by-mail ballots begin arriving
May 5, 2026
- Secure Ballot drop-off boxes open
- Note: Due to recent changes to the United States Postal Service, it may take up to a day for some ballots to get postmarked. We advise mailing in your ballot as early as possible, but definitely before June 1.
May 18, 2026
- Last day to register to vote
- 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, 2026
- Early in-person voting begins
June 2, 2026
- Election Day (polls open 7AM–8PM)
California’s June 2 primary election is your first chance to shape what shows up on the November ballot. In California’s top-two primary system, the two candidates with the most votes—regardless of party—move forward to the general election.
That means every vote matters now, not just in November.
Frequently Asked Questions
In this election, Californians will vote on:
- Governor
- U.S. House of Representatives
- State Senate (partial seats)
- State Assembly (all seats)
- Local races and measures (varies by county)
Yes. Under state law, vote-by-mail ballots are sent to every active registered voter.
Counties will begin mailing ballots by May 4.
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
Register for California’s BallotTrax tool, where you can check your ballot status and opt in to receive email or text notifications.
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.
Stay Connected
The California Black Power Network is working to ensure our communities are informed, engaged, and prepared to participate in every election.
Follow: @blkpowernetwork