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With the Nov.4 statewide special election approaching, the goal is to make sure California's diverse communities have trusted practical information to have their voice counted, said California Secretary of State, Dr. Shirley Weber at a briefing organized by American Community Media. 

“Your ballot ensures your voice is heard, allowing us to influence both California politics and the broader national political landscape.”

How to vote safely, securely and on time

There are 2.5 million folks who have already had their ballots counted. The vast majority are taking advantage of the vote-by-mail ballots. Oct.20 was the last day to register to vote for this coming election from home.

However California’s laws allow same-day registration, so if you haven’t registered yet, you can still go to the polls on November 4th, register in person, and cast a provisional ballot. That ballot will be counted once officials verify that you’re eligible and haven’t already voted, since, of course, no one can vote twice.

This is an easy election—it’s essentially one question, a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ Most voters will be able to make their choice quickly and submit their ballot in any of the available ways. 

More days and more ways to vote in California

“Whereas in some states, you only have Election Day and that’s it. We have 11 days to vote in California. We have more ways to vote in California as well ” said Secy Weber. 

Every registered voter gets a ballot in the mail. Voters can then mail it back, drop it off at a secure ballot drop box, or vote in person at a polling place or vote center.

We have ballot boxes throughout the city, and if you look at our website you can locate one near you. They are built like tanks and screwed in the ground. Your vote is secure and will be picked up until the day of the election.

If you decide to put it in the mail make sure that you do it early, she urged. You want to make sure that if you're going to use the Postal Service, that you go inside the post office and have your ballot stamped.

“Don't just toss it into the mailbox as we have been able to do in the past. The Postal Service has said that they may not be counted in certain areas. Go inside the Post Office and get it stamped!”

You can go into the polling place with your ballot in hand and still choose to vote in person. You can hand in your ballot, sign it, and cast your vote right there. 

“Some people really love the experience and history of voting; they enjoy bringing their children to share in that moment. That’s wonderful—it creates lasting memories,” she said. 

Just don’t wait too long. And don’t forget to vote.Get the ballot done! 

Make sure you go because things happen on the day of the election. And you can actually vote in person. 

If there's any concern about voting or issues, make sure that you call the hotline 1-800-345-VOTE.

The hotline is open all the time, 345-VOTE-800-345-VOTE.

“Our staff will tell you exactly what’s on the website, because we know that not everyone is into using websites or online tools. Some people just find it easier to pick up the phone and ask their questions directly and that’s perfectly fine. We encourage people to call,” she said. 

That’s why we have a helpline, and I always remind folks: if we wanted everyone to just go online, we wouldn’t need those dedicated people answering the phones. They’re there to help, and I want everyone to know that , assured Secretary Weber. 

California is unique in many ways. We operate under the federal Voting Rights Act of 1965, but because there have been challenges at the federal level, we also have our own California Voter Bill of Rights. It’s listed on the website, and it includes key protections including your right to request a new ballot if you make a mistake.

If you have made a mistake on your ballot

If you checked the wrong box or something happened to the ballot, you can get a new ballot. Don't try to scratch it out and change it. 

“Don’t save us paper. Ask us for a new ballot. You have a right to have another ballot.”

Who can help you with your ballot?

Anyone you trust, such as a coworker, family member, friend, or even your children, can help you with your ballot if you need assistance. You also have the right to drop off your completed vote-by-mail ballot at any polling place in California.

To ensure your decision to vote is entirely your own and not influenced by your workplace, the law prohibits employers or union representatives from attempting to influence or assist you in making your voting choices. Their involvement can unintentionally create pressure.

In the past, people had to rush home to vote at their assigned polling place because that’s where their registration information was stored. But now, things have changed — California uses a statewide voter database, which means you can drop off your vote-by-mail ballot at any polling place in the state.

So whether it’s near your home, your workplace, or wherever you happen to be, you can cast your ballot conveniently and make sure your vote counts.

You can usually get election materials in almost any certified language. In California, ballots are printed in nine languages in addition to English, and each one is officially certified for accuracy.

There are holes on my ballot. Who can peep into my ballot?

There is misinformation, such as false claims about the spy holes in ballot envelopes. These holes are not for seeing how someone voted. They help visually impaired voters locate the signature area or make the envelope easier to open.

These accessibility features are designed in collaboration with the disabled community to ensure ballots are secure and easy to use. If voters have any issues with their ballot, they can contact the office for a replacement.

“We have a dedicated team—including experienced election attorneys—working before, during, and after the election. All police officers and federal agents involved have been informed about California’s election laws to ensure that no voter faces intimidation or obstruction,” explained the Secretary. 

“Our Attorney General’s office partners with us to enforce these laws.”

Recently 80 or 90 ballots were part of a theft that occurred in Sacramento where someone stole mail and threw it into a homeless area. The ballots were recovered and as they had not been used, they were destroyed and new ballots issued to those persons. 

“That's why we tell folks, if you haven't gotten your ballot in the mail, contact our office, because you should have received it by at least October the 6th.”

If you have not received your ballot, go on the website and register..

Make sure that if you want to know that your ballot has been turned in, and that it's been counted. You can track it. 

Congratulations, you have voted.

Don't ever dismiss an election

Special elections often see lower voter turnout, but Secretary Weber emphasized that every election matters. Each one shapes California’s budget, policies, and future.

She urged voters to use their power and voice in every election, not just major ones. Consistent participation builds strong, respected communities. Especially for ethnic groups and those with limited resources, Weber reminded voters that every ballot counts equally. Wealth or status doesn’t change the value of the vote. “Don’t give up your power or your voice,” she said. “Your vote is your strength.”

Her office is also prepared to address any challenges regarding ballots, including those mailed or dropped off close to Election Day.

California has a very secure and time-consuming process.

 

How to Vote in California

- Register: RegisterToVote.ca.gov

- Check your voter status: VoterStatus.sos.ca.gov

Ways to vote

• By mail
• At secure drop boxes
• In person at vote centers or polling places
• Track your ballot at WheresMyBallot.sos.ca.gov.