Why It Matters
California voters face a May 18 deadline to register for the June 2 primary election, which will determine gubernatorial nominees and Congressional candidates under newly drawn district boundaries. The election marks the first time Californians will vote using district lines established by Proposition 50, which passed last November.
Residents displaced by recent wildfires must take additional steps to ensure their mail ballots reach them at temporary addresses. The state offers registration and voting assistance in 10 languages.
What Happened
The gubernatorial field has narrowed to eight candidates after former Rep. Eric Swalwell withdrew amid sexual assault and misconduct allegations. Former state Controller Betty Yee also ended her campaign, citing insufficient resources and support.
Voters who miss the May 18 registration deadline can still participate through same-day voter registration at county elections offices or polling locations. This process requires in-person registration and ballot request 15 days before the election.
By the Numbers
California residents must be 18 years or older on election day to register. The state’s voter hotline, (800) 345-8683, provides paper registration applications. Los Angeles County fire survivors can call (800) 815-2666, Option 2, to update registration information.
Vote-by-mail ballots will not forward to new addresses automatically. Displaced residents must update their mailing address through re-registration or request replacement ballots sent to temporary locations.
Registration Requirements
Eligible voters must be United States citizens and California residents. Those currently serving state or federal prison terms for felonies cannot register, nor can individuals deemed mentally incompetent by a court.
Online registration requires a state driver’s license or identification card number, the last four digits of a Social Security number, and date of birth. Officials recommend waiting 24 hours after online registration before checking voter status on the secretary of state’s website.
Voting Options
The state’s Remote Accessible Vote-By-Mail system allows voters to mark ballot selections using compatible technology at home. Users download an application, mark selections, print the ballot, sign the provided envelope, and return it by mail or drop-off at voting locations.
Paper registration applications are available at county election offices, most California libraries, United States Post Office locations, and various government offices including Department of Motor Vehicles branches.
Language Assistance
Election information is available in English, Spanish, Chinese, Hindi, Japanese, Khmer, Korean, Tagalog, Thai, and Vietnamese. Voters can access multilingual support through dedicated phone numbers and online resources provided by the secretary of state.
What’s Next
The June 2 primary will advance two candidates in each race to the November general election under California’s top-two primary system. Voters can verify registration status on the secretary of state’s website using driver’s license numbers or the last four digits of Social Security numbers.
Los Angeles County has created an online guide specifically for Pacific Palisades and Altadena fire survivors to navigate the registration and ballot process. County officials recommend displaced voters update their information as soon as possible to avoid delivery complications.