California has a “Top Two Open Primary system.” This means that all candidates running for state constitutional (like Governor, Attorney General, Secretary of State), U.S. Congressional, and state legislative offices will be listed on your statewide primary election ballot. The next Primary Election in California is on June 2nd, 2026.
In the primary election, you will vote for the candidate of your choice for these offices, regardless of what political party you are registered with. The top two candidates with the most votes in each race, will advance to the general election in November.
You will see candidates for the next Governor of California, your district’s Assembly legislators, and other key positions such as Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General, District Attorney, Sheriff, and additional local municipal and city races. Twenty State Senate districts are also up for a vote and will be listed on your ballot if you are in an even-numbered senate district.
You may vote on local measures. Local measures are proposals that directly affect your city or county, like funding for your local schools, improvements to roads or public transportation, housing access, changes to local sales tax or spending on local jails, or increased funding for fire departments.
This toolkit was created to offer clear, practical information about how voting works in California and how to take part in the June 2, 2026 statewide primary election and can support community conversations, outreach efforts, and voter education activities.
Our free, downloadable zines break down complex topics into accessible, easy-to-understand content.
Don’t forget about conditional voter registration, also known as same-day registration— which allows you to register to vote in person at a polling place on the day of election!
The policies that affect our schools, neighborhoods, and justice system are decided by elected officials. Your vote is your power to choose leaders and shape priorities that impact your daily life.
Every election decides more than candidates—it decides laws, funding, and protections that affect you and your loved ones. Voting helps ensure your rights and values are represented.
Historically, many communities have been excluded from the political process. By voting, you help push back against that exclusion and make sure your community’s needs are heard loud and clear.
You can register to vote in California if you are a United States citizen and a resident of the state, 18 years of age or older on Election Day, not currently serving a state or federal prison term for a felony conviction, and not currently found mentally incompetent to vote by a court.
In California, your voting rights are restored automatically after you finish serving a state or federal prison term. If you are on parole, probation, or have completed your sentence, you are eligible to register and vote.
It only takes a few minutes to make sure your voice is counted in the next election. Use registertovote.ca.gov to register for the first time or confirm that your information—like your address and party preference—is up to date. Staying current ensures you receive your ballot and all important election materials on time.
Missed the standard voter registration deadline? You can still register and vote in person using California’s Same-Day Registration process. Bring a valid ID to your polling place, vote center, or county elections office, and your ballot will be counted once your registration is verified.
Every county in California runs its own local elections alongside state and federal ones. From school boards to city councils, these local races directly impact your community’s resources and policies.
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In county jail for a misdemeanor or felony sentence
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Serving jail time as a condition of probation (misdemeanor or felony)
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Awaiting trial
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On parole, probation, mandatory supervision, or post-release community supervision
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On federal supervised release
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A person with a juvenile wardship adjudication
*Once you have finished serving your term, your right to vote is restored. You must re-register online at RegisterToVote.ca.gov or by filling out a paper voter registration card.
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Currently serving a state or federal prison term for a felony in prison, county jail, or another correctional facility*
If you’re passionate about ending incarceration and building community power, we invite you to join our organizing program. This is a space for directly impacted people to develop leadership skills, build political education, and take action toward transformative change.