Certificate of Authenticity
I, Shirley N. Weber, California Secretary of State, officially certify that the information contained in this California Ballot Guide is prepared according to state law and will be presented to California voters in the General Election on November 5, 2024.
Witnessed under my hand and the Great Seal of the State in Sacramento, California, this 12th day of August, 2024.
Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., Secretary of State
A Message to California Voters
Dear California Voter,
Your Vote Matters in Every Election. Active participation in every election is the cornerstone of a thriving democracy. As a registered voter in California, the upcoming General Election on November 5, 2024, presents a vital opportunity to elect representatives at all levels of government. Furthermore, you can directly influence state and local policies by voting on important state ballot propositions and local measures.
This California Ballot Guide is designed to empower you to make informed decisions regarding statewide candidates and critical issues on the November 5th ballot. Within this guide, you will find essential information about when and where to cast your ballot, details on the United States Senate races, comprehensive explanations of state ballot propositions, and a clear outline of your rights as a voter in California.
To enhance your voting experience and make participation more accessible, California offers multiple convenient ways to vote! Here are key dates and voting options for the upcoming election:
Ballots Mailed to Every Registered Voter: By October 7, 2024, every registered voter in California will receive their official ballot for the 2024 Election in the mail.
- Vote-by-Mail: You can return your completed ballot by mail using the provided postage–paid envelope. Ensure your ballot is postmarked on or before Election Day, November 5, 2024, and received by your county elections office within 7 days after Election Day.
- Early Voting: Early voting begins October 7, 2024. County elections offices offer early voting at their primary location, and many counties provide additional early voting locations for your convenience leading up to Election Day.
- Secure Ballot Drop–off Locations: Official ballot drop–off locations will be available no later than October 8, 2024. These secure locations offer a safe and convenient way to return your ballot before Election Day.
- Vote Centers (Voter’s Choice Act Counties): In counties participating in the Voter’s Choice Act, vote centers will open starting October 26, 2024. You can vote in person or drop off your ballot at any vote center within these counties.
- Election Day: November 5, 2024 is Election Day, the final day to vote in the General Election. Polling places and vote centers will be open for in-person voting.
Plan Your Vote: Decide in advance whether you will vote-by-mail, utilize a ballot drop-off location, or vote in person at a local polling place or vote center. Having a plan ensures your voice is heard.
Track Your Ballot: Stay informed about the status of your ballot! California voters can track their ballot after mailing or dropping it off by signing up for alerts at WheresMyBallot.sos.ca.gov. Receive timely updates via text, email, or voice notifications.
Your Vote Shapes the Future: Voting is your opportunity to influence decisions that affect your life and community. By taking the time to learn about the candidates and issues and casting your ballot, you ensure your voice is heard and contribute to shaping the future.
Thank you for your commitment to a strong democracy!
