November 2026 Voter Guide — Sacramento Area
🏛️ State Offices ⚖️ Judicial 🏙️ Local Races 📋 Propositions Ariel's Picks

Sacramento Area

Ariel's Voting Guide

November 2026 General Election

See who Ariel is voting for! Ariel's Picks →

How to Use This Guide

Statewide races (Governor, Lt. Governor, etc.) are on everyone's ballot regardless of where you live.
Local races (Congress, Assembly, State Senate, school boards) vary by your address. Look up your ballot at vote.ca.gov to see exactly what's on yours.
Judicial races are retention votes — you vote YES or NO on keeping each judge. They're nonpartisan.
Tap any race to expand it and read the candidates. Tap again to collapse. Use the Next → button at the bottom of each card to move through the ballot in order.
Election Day: November 3, 2026 · Polls open 7am–8pm · Or vote early by mail!
● Democrat ● Republican ● No Party / Nonpartisan

🏛️ State Offices

Governor
4-year term · Top executive of California
▼
Xavier Becerra
Democratic Party
Former U.S. HHS Secretary (Biden admin)
About
Represented Los Angeles in Congress 20+ years, then became California AG in 2017 where he led numerous lawsuits against the first Trump administration. Served as U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services under Biden, overseeing the COVID-19 vaccine rollout.
Platform
Wants to declare a state of emergency to freeze insurance/utility rates, rein in housing costs, create 40,000 units of affordable housing, crack down on price gouging, and expand the state's down payment assistance program. Open to revising climate goals if they make fuel unaffordable.
Controversies
Criticism over HHS care of migrant children. Attacked as a longtime government insider. Rival Tom Steyer ran numerous ads criticizing his HHS tenure.
Key Endorsements
Planned Parenthood California, California Faculty Association, Equality California
Steve Hilton
Republican Party
Former Fox News Host / Former UK PM Adviser
About
British-American, was senior adviser to UK PM David Cameron 2010–2012. Co-founded a political crowdfunding platform in Silicon Valley. Hosted a weekly Fox News show 2017–2023.
Platform
Lower gas prices by suspending environmental regulations, eliminate state income tax on first $150K of earnings, halve the gas tax, open natural spaces for suburban single-family housing, end greenhouse gas mandates.
Controversies
Stated he would extradite a California abortion doctor to Louisiana — drew significant backlash. Called an election denier for claiming Biden didn't defeat Trump.
Key Endorsements
President Donald Trump, Nisei Farmers League, Israeli-American Civic Action Network
Lieutenant Governor
4-year term
▼
Fiona Ma
Democratic Party
Current California State Treasurer
About
Longtime state official. State Treasurer since 2019, previously on the Board of Equalization 2014–2018, SF supervisor, and four-term assemblymember. Oversees the world's fourth-largest economy as treasurer.
Platform
Leaning into her financial expertise — particularly around issuing housing bonds for universities and building student housing. Her deep experience in state finance is her core pitch.
Controversies
Faced scrutiny about workplace culture and management style in her treasurer's office.
Key Endorsements
California Labor Federation, State Building and Construction Trades Council, AFSCME
Gloria Romero
Republican Party
Former CA Senate Majority Leader
About
Former longtime Democratic lawmaker who served nearly 12 years in the Legislature. Was Senate Majority Leader 2005–2008, the first woman to serve in that role. Became a registered Republican in 2024. Hilton asked her to be "on the ticket" with him.
Platform
School choice, rolling back COVID-era policies, and opposing Democratic gender identity policies in schools. Has made opposition to transgender women in sports a key position.
Controversies
Many former Democratic colleagues feel betrayed. Republican voters also wary of her recent party switch.
Key Endorsements
California Republican Party, Reform California
Secretary of State
4-year term · Incumbent: Shirley N. Weber (D)
▼
Shirley N. Weber ★
Democratic Party · INCUMBENT
California Secretary of State
About
First Black Secretary of State in California history, appointed 2021, won full term in 2022. Daughter of Arkansas sharecroppers who fled the Jim Crow South. Oversaw permanent implementation of universal mail-in voting.
Platform
Expanding voter access, defending universal mail-in voting, prioritizing accuracy in ballot counting, outreach to formerly incarcerated voters and young voters.
Controversies
Ongoing criticism over California's notoriously slow ballot-counting pace; she argues accuracy matters more than speed.
Key Endorsements
California Labor Federation and broad Democratic establishment statewide
Don Wagner
Republican Party
Orange County Supervisor / Former Irvine Mayor
About
Orange County supervisor, former Irvine mayor, and ex-state assemblymember. First major Republican to mount a serious challenge in this race in years.
Platform
Supports requiring voter ID at polls, pushed for release of voter information to Trump's DOJ over claims of irregularities, wants to streamline business filings and reduce fees.
Controversies
Many of his signature proposals (ending mail ballots, imposing voter ID) would require new laws or ballot measures — raising questions about what he could realistically accomplish.
Key Endorsements
California Republican Party, Reform California, California Republican Assembly
Controller
4-year term · State's chief accountant · Incumbent: Malia Cohen (D)
▼
The Controller is California's chief accountant — auditing state finances and paying government employees. Think of it as the state's top financial watchdog.
Malia Cohen ★
Democratic Party · INCUMBENT
California State Controller
About
Has served as California's controller since 2023 and is running for re-election. Recently released the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report — the first clean audit opinion from the state auditor since 2019.
Platform
Governing state finances with transparency, efficiency, and fairness. Urged lawmakers to spend with caution during recent budget negotiations.
Controversies
Undercover video surfaced showing a deputy controller official admitting the office "just can't conduct the audits" due to repeated staffing cuts.
Key Endorsements
California Democratic Party, California Labor Federation, Equality California
Herb Morgan
Republican Party
Chief Investment Officer / Finance Executive
About
Founded an investment firm in San Diego later acquired by Cantor Fitzgerald. Finance industry executive with no prior elected office experience — running as an outsider.
Platform
Fraud-focused scrutiny and tech-driven transparency — proposing blockchain and AI for real-time spending oversight. Wants to aggressively investigate waste and fraud.
Controversies
Tech proposals may not be practical. No government experience is a major gap for an office requiring deep public-sector finance knowledge.
Key Endorsements
California Republican Party, California Republican Assembly, Unity Party of California
Treasurer
4-year term · State's top asset manager
▼
Eleni Kounalakis
Democratic Party
Current California Lieutenant Governor
About
Two terms as lieutenant governor. On both the UC Board of Regents and CSU Board of Trustees, regularly voted down proposed tuition hikes. Former ambassador to Hungary under Obama.
Platform
Fiscally responsible management of state investments, protecting working families, and keeping higher education costs down. Pitches her board experience as uniquely relevant to the day-to-day duties of treasurer.
Controversies
Family's real estate development ties raised conflict-of-interest questions when she was lieutenant governor. Late entry into the treasurer race after dropping out of the governor's race raised questions about motivation.
Key Endorsements
California Labor Federation, Teamsters California, National Union of Healthcare Workers
Jennifer Hawks
Republican Party
Retired Silicon Valley Executive
About
Silicon Valley retiree, most recently on the executive team at Sacred Heart Schools in Atherton. Local Republican Party activist. Touts her lack of elected office experience.
Platform
Argues her private sector background gives her skills and independence to provide a genuine check on the Democratic-dominated state government. Business-minded approach to managing state investments and debt.
Controversies
Complete lack of government experience is her biggest hurdle for an office that has been held exclusively by Democratic career politicians for nearly three decades.
Key Endorsements
California Republican Party, California Republican Assembly, Reform California
Attorney General
4-year term · Incumbent: Rob Bonta (D)
▼
Rob Bonta ★
Democratic Party · INCUMBENT
California Attorney General · First Filipino American AG
About
Appointed AG in 2021, elected to a 4-year term in 2022. Former East Bay assemblymember. Filed or joined 50+ lawsuits against the Trump administration — one of the most active state-level fighters against federal policy in the country.
Platform
Fighting federal overreach, consumer protection, fentanyl trafficking, gun enforcement, and reproductive rights. Also enforced housing laws compelling recalcitrant cities to build more.
Controversies
In Nov. 2025, $468K from his reelection campaign went to a law firm for legal advice tied to an East Bay bribery investigation involving Oakland's former mayor. His wife sponsored legislation critics called a "journalism chill bill."
Key Endorsements
California Democratic Party, California Teachers Association, California Environmental Voters
Michael Gates
Republican Party
Deputy U.S. Attorney / Former Trump DOJ Official
About
Former Huntington Beach city attorney for a decade. Challenged state housing laws compelling Huntington Beach to build more affordable housing. In 2025, appointed a deputy assistant AG in Trump's DOJ Civil Rights Division.
Platform
Law-and-order enforcement, rolling back Sacramento's overreach, "election confidence," cracking down on camping and loitering. Running as part of a slate with Steve Hilton. Wants to refocus the AG's office on traditional crime-fighting.
Controversies
Challenges to state housing mandates were frequently unsuccessful. Brief stint in Trump's DOJ Civil Rights Division has drawn scrutiny from civil rights advocates.
Key Endorsements
Steve Hilton, California Republican Party, California Parents Union, California Rifle & Pistol Association
Insurance Commissioner
4-year term · 🔵🔵 Democrat vs. Democrat
▼
⚠️ Both candidates are Democrats. This is one of the most consequential races on the ballot as insurance costs continue to rise in California. Take your time with this one.

🧪 Take the CalMatters quiz to see which candidate aligns with your views →
Ben Allen
Democratic Party
California State Senator
About
State senator since 2014. Strong record on environmental issues (authored the law restricting plastic straws/single-use plastics). Since his district was hit by the L.A. County fires, authored legislation to give the insurance department more enforcement power and establish a loan program for wildfire resilience.
Platform
Transparency from insurers, appoint a consumer advocate, reveal insurers' fossil fuel investments, ban commissioners from working in the insurance industry right after leaving office, transition FAIR Plan customers back to private market by building fire resilience in high-risk communities.
Controversies
Critics say his approach is heavy on environmental advocacy but lighter on concrete plans to actually bring insurers back to California. Focus on fossil fuel divestment seen by some as tangential to the immediate crisis.
Key Endorsements
California Environmental Voters, California Professional Firefighters, Sierra Club, California Democratic Party, San Francisco Chronicle
Jane Kim
Democratic Party
Former San Francisco Supervisor / Consumer Advocate
About
Former SF supervisor who secured free community college for city residents, California's first $15 minimum wage ordinance, and a tenant-protection ordinance. A major name in San Francisco politics.
Platform
Wants to establish "natural disaster insurance for all" — a state-run authority funded by premiums to guarantee coverage for wildfires and floods. Also wants to expand California's low-cost auto insurance program. The most government-intervention-focused Democrat in this race.
Controversies
Her proposals are the most expensive and ambitious; critics question whether a state-backed insurance fund is financially viable given California's wildfire exposure. Seen as very SF-centric in a race that needs to speak to all of California.
Key Endorsements
Sen. Bernie Sanders, SEIU California, California Teachers Association, California Faculty Association, California Labor Federation
Superintendent of Public Instruction
4-year term · Nonpartisan office
▼
Richard Barrera
No Party Preference — Democrat-aligned
San Diego Unified School Board President
About
President of the San Diego Unified school board. Little known outside San Diego until winning the California Teachers Association endorsement, which in California education politics is enormous — the union has a massive ground game and donor infrastructure.
Platform
Boosting school funding, expanding early childhood education, and easing the pathway to becoming a teacher.
Controversies
Critics from the reform wing of education policy argue electing the teachers union's preferred candidate essentially means the union is running the office.
Key Endorsements
California Teachers Association, United Domestic Workers, California Charter School Advocates
Sonja Shaw
No Party Preference — Republican-aligned
Chino Valley Unified School Board President
About
President of the Chino Valley School Board. Made headlines in 2023 when she presided over a school board meeting where State Superintendent Tony Thurmond was escorted out during a debate over transgender student rights.
Platform
Shift away from "radical ideologies" in the classroom and a return to academic basics. Full-time educator for 23 years. Argues California's low-income students are being failed despite the state ranking in the top 20 for per-pupil spending.
Controversies
The transgender student policies controversy is her defining issue. In the most recent poll she had 7% support.
Key Endorsements
California Republican Party, Moms for Liberty, California Rifle and Pistol Association

⚖️ Judicial — Retention Votes

These are retention votes, not contested elections. You vote YES to keep each justice, or NO to remove them. All were appointed by Democratic governors and have not drawn any organized opposition.
Joshua Groban RETENTION
Associate Justice · California Supreme Court
▼

Appointed to the California Supreme Court in January 2019. Previously was Senior Advisor to Governor Jerry Brown, advising on judicial appointments, legal policy and legislative issues. He advised on the appointment of over 600 judges — roughly one out of every three judges in the state. Previously in private practice specializing in complex civil litigation (antitrust, internal investigations, and intellectual property).

Education: B.A. (honors) Stanford, J.D. Harvard Law (cum laude). Clerked for Judge William C. Conner, S.D.N.Y.

Kelli M. Evans RETENTION
Associate Justice · California Supreme Court
▼

Associate Justice of the California Supreme Court. Previously served as a Judge in Alameda County Superior Court. Before that, served as Chief Deputy Legal Affairs Secretary in the Office of Governor Newsom. Earlier career at the California DOJ (Special Assistant to AG), Senior Director for the Administration of Justice at the California State Bar, Associate Director of the ACLU of Northern California, Senior Trial Attorney in the DOJ Civil Rights Division, and Assistant Public Defender in Sacramento.

Education: B.A. Stanford, J.D. UC Davis School of Law (Martin Luther King, Jr. Award for Public Service).

Laurie Earl RETENTION
Administrative Presiding Justice · Court of Appeal, Third District
▼

Appointed to California's Third District Court of Appeal by Governor Newsom in November 2021, unanimously confirmed January 2022. Prior to that, served as a Judge on the Sacramento County Superior Court from 2005 to 2021 (appointed by Gov. Schwarzenegger), presiding over civil, criminal and juvenile dependency cases. Served as Presiding Judge of the Sacramento Superior Court 2012–2013. Recognized for leading the 3rd District out of a years-long case backlog while emphasizing quality over speed.

Lauri Damrell RETENTION
Associate Justice · Court of Appeal, Third District
▼

Superior Court judge since 2018, presiding over civil and criminal trials, misdemeanor arraignments, civil harassment and domestic violence restraining order hearings, and family court. From 2006–2018, practiced at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe, LLP, advising national and international corporations on employment matters and litigation. Visiting lecturer at UC Davis Law and adjunct professor at Lincoln School of Law.

Stacy Boulware Eurie RETENTION
Associate Justice · Court of Appeal, Third District
▼

Unanimously confirmed as Associate Justice August 2022 (appointed by Gov. Newsom). Previously served as a trial judge on the Sacramento Superior Court for 15 years, including as Presiding Judge of the Juvenile Court 2010–2018. Active in California's legal community for 25+ years — former President of the Sacramento County Bar Association, board member of Women Lawyers of Sacramento, and executive member of the Commission on the Future of California's Court System.

Jonathan Renner RETENTION
Associate Justice · Court of Appeal, Third District
▼

Grew up in Nevada County, California. After working as an associate attorney at two Sacramento law firms, joined the California DOJ as a Deputy AG in the Government Law Section. Later selected to lead the Government Law Section as Senior Assistant AG. Prior to joining the court, served as Legal Affairs Secretary to Governor Brown, advising the Governor and overseeing defense of significant litigation against the administration.

Education: B.A. UC Davis, J.D. University of the Pacific, McGeorge School of Law.

Aimee A. Feinberg RETENTION
Associate Justice · Court of Appeal, Third District
▼

Sworn in as Associate Justice January 30, 2024. From 2014–2023, served as a Deputy Solicitor General in the California DOJ, representing state agencies in complex cases before the U.S. Supreme Court, the California Supreme Court, the 9th Circuit, and other courts. Before that, directed the California Supreme Court Clinic at UC Davis School of Law, where she represented clients before the state high court.

Shama Mesiwala RETENTION
Associate Justice · Court of Appeal, Third District
▼

Born in Stanford in 1974, raised in Cupertino. Her father immigrated from India in the 1960s. Graduated UC San Diego magna cum laude in three years. Devoted her legal career to public service: represented indigent criminal defendants at the Federal Public Defender's office and Central California Appellate Program; created Northern California's first Indian Child Welfare Act courtroom; served as the ADA judge for the Hall of Justice.

Has been a professor of Appellate Advocacy at UC Davis Law for 14+ years. Co-founder of the South Asian Bar Association of Sacramento. Recipient of numerous community service awards.

Education: B.A. UC San Diego (magna cum laude), J.D. UC Davis King Hall (1998).

🏙️ Local Races

⚠️ Some of these races may not be on your ballot depending on your exact address. Check your sample ballot at sos.ca.gov/elections to confirm.
U.S. Congress — District 7
🔵🔵 Democrat vs. Democrat · Sacramento area
▼
⚠️ Both candidates are Democrats due to California's top-two primary system.
Doris Matsui ★
Democratic Party · INCUMBENT
U.S. Representative since 2005 · Born in Japanese internment camp
About
Elected in 2005 after her husband died while holding this congressional seat. Born in a Japanese internment camp during WWII. Has been in Congress for over two decades.
Platform
Clean energy, healthcare, technology policy, and flood control — helped secure $4 billion in local flood protection investments. Recently passed two bipartisan bills to strengthen emergency communications for wildfires and extreme weather. If Democrats control Congress, would become Chair of the Energy & Commerce Communications & Technology Subcommittee.
Controversies
At 81 she's one of the oldest members of Congress. Between 2019–2024, voted for five spending packages that included nearly $42 billion for ICE — a record Vang has been hammering in a district with a large immigrant community.
Key Endorsements
California Democratic Party, Planned Parenthood, broad Democratic establishment. California Federation of Labor unusually endorsed both candidates.
Mai Vang
Democratic Party
Sacramento City Councilmember · First Hmong-American elected to Sac City Council
About
Sacramento city councilmember, first Asian-American woman and first person of Hmong descent elected to the Sacramento City Council. Elected in 2020, re-elected unopposed in 2024. First elected official to challenge Matsui in the 20 years since Matsui took her late husband's seat.
Platform
Medicare-for-All, rejects corporate PAC money, explicitly positions herself as the new generation vs. the old guard. Has secured millions for youth impacted by poverty and violence and led three successful citywide ballot measures.
Controversies
Despite no-corporate-PAC pledge, Matsui campaign claims Vang has taken tens of thousands from corporate PACs throughout her career (including from PG&E, casinos, and corporate developers) and allegedly benefited from nearly $500K in super PAC spending.
Key Endorsements
National Union of Healthcare Workers, Courage California, Justice Democrats
U.S. Congress — District 3
Elk Grove / Amador / Placer / El Dorado / Nevada / Sierra counties
▼
Ami Bera
Democratic Party
U.S. Representative since 2013 · Medical Doctor · Elk Grove resident
Platform
Healthcare access, homelessness solutions, economic growth along the Highway 50 corridor, and bipartisan deal-making. Pitches himself as the pragmatic, experienced choice.
Controversies
Still lives in Elk Grove, which isn't even part of the redrawn District 3 he's seeking to represent. Progressives have called him too moderate and too corporate in his fundraising.
Key Endorsements
Sacramento Bee. Strong fundraising lead — $888,115 raised.
Robb Tucker
Republican Party
Nevada County Supervisor
About
Nevada County supervisor who just started his term in January 2025. Rooted in the Sierra Nevada mountain communities of the district.
Platform
Conservative fiscal policy, local government control, representing rural and mountain communities that make up a significant chunk of this district.
Controversies
Very limited fundraising at $70,730 makes a November run difficult. Inexperience is also a factor.
Key Endorsements
Kevin Kiley (significant given Kiley's popularity in this region), former Sacramento County officials
State Senate — District 8
Incumbent: Angelique Ashby (D) · Senate Majority Leader
▼
Angelique Ashby ★
Democratic Party · INCUMBENT
California Senate Majority Leader
About
State Senator since December 2022. Appointed Senate Majority Leader December 23, 2025. Previously on the Sacramento City Council for 12 years. Grew up in Sacramento, went to Sacramento High School, UC Davis, and McGeorge Law.
Platform
Homelessness solutions (authored SB 802 to create a regional agency tackling housing and homelessness throughout Sacramento County), school funding, literacy, economic development, infrastructure, and climate change. Has been outspoken against ICE raids, calling them "unfathomably cruel."
Controversies
In her 2016 Sacramento mayoral run, she used an inflated crime reduction statistic (claimed a 48% drop in her district's crime rate based on bad math). Critics felt she should have verified it before using it publicly.
Key Endorsements
Governor Newsom, former Governor Jerry Brown, California Democratic Party, institutional weight of being Senate Majority Leader
Susan A. Mason
Republican Party
Retired Nurse
About
Ran in the 2022 primary for this same seat and finished last. Back again with no campaign website, fundraising activity, or media presence.
Key Endorsements
Sacramento County Republican Party
State Assembly — District 10
Elk Grove, Florin, Vineyard, parts of South Sacramento · Incumbent: Stephanie Nguyen (D)
▼
Stephanie Nguyen ★
Democratic Party · INCUMBENT
California Assemblymember · Elk Grove resident
About
Born to Vietnamese refugees, grew up in Sacramento. Appointed to Elk Grove City Council in 2017, won election to the Assembly in 2022. Former executive director of Asian Resources Inc., serving Sacramento's API communities.
Platform
Public safety, healthcare access, and community services. Wife of a police officer and member of the Sheriff's community advisory board. Has earned backing from over 50,000 law enforcement officers statewide. Supported Prop 36 (2024, tougher penalties for theft and drug crimes), which was popular in this district.
Controversies
Progressive criminal justice reform advocates have given her a "D" on their legislative scorecard. Seen as one of the more conservative Democrats in the Assembly.
Key Endorsements
Broad law enforcement endorsements, local Democratic Party establishment, Sacramento-area elected officials
Vinaya Singh
Republican Party
Retired Application Developer
About
Scientist who ran against Nguyen in both the 2024 primary and general and lost decisively both times. Back for a third attempt.
Platform
Conservative fiscal policy, public safety, and reducing regulations. Notably, Nguyen has effectively claimed much of the law-and-order ground from the Democratic side in this district.
Controversies
Believes in "Population Control" — that each family should only have 2 children to fight inflation. After three consecutive losses in the same seat, Republicans have questioned whether this is a viable candidacy.
Key Endorsements
California Republican Party
State Assembly — District 7
Citrus Heights, Folsom, Rancho Cordova, Carmichael, Fair Oaks, Orangevale · One of CA's most competitive races
▼
Josh Hoover ★
Republican Party · INCUMBENT
California Assemblymember · Folsom resident
About
Prior to becoming an assemblyman, served on the Folsom Cordova Unified School District school board. Flipped this seat from Democrat Ken Cooley in 2022 by just over a thousand votes, then held it in 2024 by a 7-point margin.
Platform
Public safety, fiscal accountability, and reducing government overreach. Has authored several tough-on-crime bills. Also pushed the state auditor to examine Newsom's return-to-office order.
Controversies
Progressive criminal justice groups have given him an "F" on their legislative scorecards every year he's been in office.
Key Endorsements
California Republican Party, California Correctional Peace Officers Association, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association
Amy Slavensky
Democratic Party
Retired Teacher, Principal & School Superintendent
About
Most recently served as interim deputy superintendent for the San Juan Unified School District. Career educator (teacher, then principal, then administrator). Describes herself as "at my core, a mom, a wife, an educator, and a neighbor who believes in showing up for people with compassion and integrity."
Platform
Education funding, mental health services, and housing stability. Having lost her brother after years of homelessness, campaigns on treating people experiencing mental illness and housing instability with humanity while expanding mental health care and diverse housing options. A moderate Democrat well-suited to this purple district.
Key Endorsements
SEIU, California Teachers Association, California Labor Federation
Board of Equalization — District 1
Oversees property tax assessment · San Joaquin Valley and surrounding area
▼
The Board of Equalization (BOE) is a 5-member elected board that oversees property tax assessment practices across California's 58 counties, hears tax appeals from businesses and individuals, and helps administer the state's broader tax system.
Shannon Grove
Republican Party
California State Senator · Army Veteran · Term-limited out of Senate
About
Represented the San Joaquin Valley in the Legislature since 2010, first in the Assembly then the state Senate, where she served as Senate Minority Leader. First woman veteran elected to the California Legislature. Term-limited out of her Senate seat and pivoting to the BOE.
Platform
Positioning herself as a taxpayer advocate with a proven record of stopping tax increases and fighting for Prop 13 protections. Wants to bring conservative fiscal oversight to the board.
Controversies
Donors include AT&T, Phillips 66, Amazon, and the California Correctional Peace Officers Association — critics say this shows she's beholden to corporate interests. Votes in Legislature on LGBTQ+ issues and social policy have drawn controversy.
Key Endorsements
Reform California, California Republican Assembly, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, The Sacramento Bee
Nelson Esparza
Democratic Party
Fresno City Councilmember · Educator
About
Educator who has served on the Fresno City Council since 2019, winning his 2022 re-election by 43 points. Prioritized public safety, affordable housing, and equitable infrastructure. Previously served as a trustee on the Fresno County Board of Education.
Platform
Fair and equitable tax administration, protecting working families and small businesses from overtaxation, ensuring the BOE serves all Californians — not just corporations with resources to appeal tax assessments.
Key Endorsements
California Democratic Party, California Federation of Labor, California School Employees Association
EGUSD Board — Trustee Area 2
Elk Grove Unified School District · Nonpartisan
▼
Michael Vargas ★
No Party Preference — Democrat-aligned · INCUMBENT
EGUSD Governing Board Member · Lawyer
About
Lawyer elected to the EGUSD Board in 2022. Has a Masters Degree in Education and spent four years working with K-12 students. After law school, taught law at Santa Clara University and McGeorge School of Law. Worked for the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission supporting early LGBTQ+ employment protections.
Platform
During his time in office: increased A-G completion rates by 5%, Career Technical Education participation by 4%, AP participation by 3%. Implemented new literacy training for K-3 teachers, leading to significant rise in 3rd-grade literacy rates. Hired more campus security staff and invested heavily in physical security improvements.
Key Endorsements
Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen, Doris Matsui, Ami Bera, Stephanie Nguyen, Democratic Party of Sacramento County, Elk Grove Education Association
Kirk Thomson
No Party Preference — Republican-aligned
Skills Coach / Father
About
Father of two who decided to run after attending a school board meeting three years ago. Saw a disconnect between district decisions and student needs.
Platform
Refocusing the district on academic achievement, increasing transparency for parents, and improving communication.
Controversies
⚠️ Tweets surfaced in which Thomson repeatedly used a slur for people with disabilities. He apologized, saying he has a son with a disability. Despite this, all of his major endorsements have been rescinded and he decided to stay in the race.
Key Endorsements
None — all rescinded due to controversy.
Florin Resource Conservation District — Director
Nonpartisan · Multiple seats
▼

Paul Lindsay INCUMBENT

Previously an Associate Director for the Florin RCD. Retired after a 35-year career with the Social Security Administration in various positions (Claims Specialist, Operations Supervisor, District Manager). Settled in Elk Grove in 1985. Served on Sacramento County's Community Planning Advisory Commission for Elk Grove prior to its incorporation. Recently served on the Sacramento County Grand Jury for two years. Currently serves on the Cosumnes Community Service District's Landscape and Lighting Committee and is President of the Friends of the Elk Grove Library.

Bret Bartholomew

6th generation Elk Grovian and publisher of Elk Grove – Small Town News in the Big City, a hyperlocal community platform with 22,000+ members and 1M+ views every two months. Founded Bartholomew Solutions, a consulting and event strategy firm. Currently serves as Vice Chair of the Measure E Citizens' Oversight Committee, Chair of the Cosumnes CSD Park Advisory Committee. Named to Sacramento Business Journal 2026 40 Under 40.

Endorsed by: Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen

John Moua

Elk Grove resident since 2007. IT career in Southern California, then worked as an IT engineer for Covered California and as a supervisor with the California Department of Health Care Services. Served on the Cosumnes CSD Park Advisory Committee, the Elliott Ranch Elementary School Site Council, and the EGUSD Technology Advisory Committee. Involved with Sacramento Hmong New Year activities and community organizations.

Endorsed by: Elk Grove Mayor Bobbie Singh-Allen, Elk Grove Vice Mayor Darren Suen

Kimberly A. Martin

Retired City Employee. Note: No website or social media pages regarding her campaign were found at the time this guide was published.

📋 Propositions & Measures

Prop 1 — Housing Bonds
Borrow $11.25 billion for affordable housing programs
▼
Would allow the state to sell $11.25 billion in bonds to fund affordable housing — $1.25B for veteran housing, the rest for rental homes, homeownership programs, farmworker housing, affordable student housing, tribal housing and more. Expected to help fund up to 40,000 multifamily rental units and help 40,000 households buy a home.

Context: Would replenish funding for several successful state programs that have exhausted their resources. Placed on the ballot by the Legislature.

✅ Supporters Say
California needs more money for housing to help the state's 180,000+ homeless residents, those who can't afford rent, and those who can't afford to purchase a home.

Supported by: California Democratic Party, Gov. Gavin Newsom, The California Apartment Association
❌ Opponents Say
Some Republican legislators criticized the bill for using veterans to drum up support while doing little to serve them. Also questioned the wisdom of borrowing more money without addressing underlying reasons housing is so expensive to build.

Opposed by: Some Republican State Lawmakers, including Tony Strickland and Carl DeMaio
Vote YES means
You want to allow the state to sell $11.25 billion in bonds to fund affordable housing programs.
Vote NO means
You do not want California to sell $11.25 billion in bonds to fund affordable housing programs.
Prop 2 — Rainy Day Fund
Raise the limit on state reserves from 10% to 20%
▼
Constitutional amendment that would expand the maximum size of California's Budget Stabilization Account ("rainy day fund") from 10% to 20% of general fund tax revenue. Also exempts new deposits into the fund from counting against the state's Gann Limit spending cap.

Context: The Gann Limit (Prop 4, 1979) caps annual state spending and requires excess funds to be returned to taxpayers. If Prop 2 passes, these new deposits won't count toward that limit.

✅ Supporters Say
California's tax revenue is volatile and relies heavily on the stock market. Saving more during economic booms builds a stronger reserve for downturns.

Supported by: California Democratic Party, Legislative Democrats, Gov. Newsom, The Sacramento Bee
❌ Opponents Say
The state's reserves can be used by politicians as a "slush fund." Would allow lawmakers to withhold more tax revenue without triggering the spending limit, avoiding refunds to taxpayers.

Opposed by: Reform California, Legislative Republicans, Orange County Register, San Diego Union-Tribune
Vote YES means
You want to allow the state to deposit up to 20% of general fund tax revenue into state reserves.
Vote NO means
You want California to keep its current deposit ceiling at 10%.
Prop 3 — Make Education Tax Permanent
Make the income tax on higher earners permanent to fund education & healthcare
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Would make permanent an income tax on top earners that is currently set to expire in 2031. Rates range from 10.3% (for individual income over $360K) to 12.3% (over $721K). 89% of money goes to K-12 public schools, 11% to community colleges, excess to public healthcare. Typically raises $5–$15 billion per year. Placed on the ballot by the California Teachers Association.

Context: This tax on higher earners has been in place since 2012. This prop would make it permanent instead of letting it expire in 2031.

✅ Supporters Say
The tax has been a vital source of revenue for schools. If Prop 3 fails, the loss of up to $15 billion a year could lead to layoffs, program cuts and other reductions.

Supported by: California Teachers Association, California Democratic Party, California School Employees Association, California Medical Association
❌ Opponents Say
California already has some of the highest income taxes in the country. May spur wealthy Californians to leave for lower-tax states, taking jobs and revenue with them.

Opposed by: California Taxpayers Association, Reform California
Vote YES means
You want to make the tax on higher earners permanent.
Vote NO means
You want the rates on higher earners to expire in 2031.
Prop 4 — Public Campaign Financing
Allow public financing of political campaigns
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Would authorize California's state and local governments to establish public campaign funds for candidates if they choose to. Reverses a 1988 ban on such systems for the state and most local governments.

Context: This system was used in New York to help Zohran Mamdani fund his campaign for Mayor. Currently only five California cities have public financing for local offices, including Berkeley and San Francisco.

✅ Supporters Say
Public campaign financing helps curb the influence of private money in politics. Encourages candidates without significant financial backing to run and empowers small donors.

Supported by: California Common Cause, California Clean Money Campaign, League of Women Voters, California Democratic Party
❌ Opponents Say
Would force taxpayers to subsidize political candidates they may not want to support and could direct funding to fraudulent candidates. Also expensive for state and local governments to set up.

Opposed by: California Taxpayers Association, Reform California
Vote YES means
You want to allow public financing of state and local political campaigns.
Vote NO means
You do not want to authorize public financing for state and local political campaigns.
Prop 5 — Recall Reform
Delay replacing recalled state officials
▼
Constitutional amendment that would delay the election of a successor to a recalled official until a separate election. The recalled officer could run in that election. If the governor is recalled, the lieutenant governor would take over until a new governor is elected. Placed on the ballot by the Legislature.

Context: Under current law, voters choose a replacement on the same ballot as the recall vote. That's how Republican Arnold Schwarzenegger was first elected governor in 2003, replacing recalled Democratic Gov. Gray Davis.

✅ Supporters Say
A recall election should focus on whether the official should be recalled — not who should replace them. Born out of a proposal from Secretary of State Weber's office after the 2021 Newsom recall attempt.

Supported by: California Common Cause, League of Women Voters, California Democratic Party
❌ Opponents Say
Allowing the lieutenant governor to assume office if the governor is recalled would dissuade people from participating in a recall election. Would dilute voter power while protecting incumbents.

Opposed by: California Taxpayers Association, Reform California, Election Integrity Project California, Inc.
Vote YES means
You want a separate election to replace a recalled state official.
Vote NO means
You want to choose a replacement when voting to recall.
Prop 37 — Low-Cost Mortgages
Create low-cost mortgages for homebuyers of new construction
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California's Housing Finance Agency would be able to borrow up to $25 billion to help would-be homebuyers purchase newly constructed houses and condos. Loans could provide up to 17% of a home's purchase price — meaning buyers could have a cash down payment of just 3% if paired with a typical mortgage ($24,000 for an $800,000 home). Anyone earning up to twice the area's median income would be eligible.

Context: Loans are provided by private lenders, not the state/taxpayers — if borrowers default, the private lenders are on the hook. Only for newly constructed homes, to incentivize developers to build more during California's housing shortage.

✅ Supporters Say
Down payments equal to 20% of a home's value aren't feasible for most Californians. This loan program puts homeownership within reach of the middle class without costing taxpayers a dime.

Supported by: California Democratic Party, Xavier Becerra, California Association of Realtors, SEIU
❌ Opponents Say
State government shouldn't be in the mortgage lending market. Won't address the underlying reasons housing is so expensive. Helps people buy homes by allowing them to go into even deeper debt.

Opposed by: League of Women Voters, Reform California
Vote YES means
You want to enable CA's Housing Finance Agency to offer loans to homebuyers of new construction.
Vote NO means
You don't want CA's Housing Finance Agency in the business of lending money to homebuyers.
Prop 38 — Immunology Research Bond
Borrow $8.4 billion for cancer, heart disease & Alzheimer's research
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Would create an $8.4 billion bond to fund research into fighting cancer, heart disease and Alzheimer's through immunotherapies. Half the money would go to a research institute affiliated with the University of California; the other half to select public universities and nonprofits. Drugs created through this research must be discounted 20% for Californians.

Context: Due to the criteria written into this prop, only one research institute in all of California would be eligible to receive the UC-affiliated funding. The co-founder of that institute, Gary Michelson, is also the one who put this measure on the ballot. That institute would also be exempt from California's major public disclosure laws, including public records requests. Will add $500M–$600M per year in debt payments for 20 years.

✅ Supporters Say
The potential for cures through immunotherapies is huge because most diseases involve the immune system. Funding is needed because the Trump administration has tried to cut federal health science research.

Supported by: California Democratic Party, American Association of Immunologists, City of Hope, Michelson Center for Public Policy
❌ Opponents Say
Focuses on just one subset of biomedical research. Questionable whether research can produce commercial drugs given how hard it is to get a drug approved. Just one nonprofit stands to receive half the money. Questions about why it's exempt from public disclosure laws.

Opposed by: League of Women Voters, Robert Kaplan (senior scholar at Stanford), California Health Policy Strategies, The Sacramento Bee
Vote YES means
You want to provide funding for immunology research, with half potentially going to one institute.
Vote NO means
You don't want to provide this funding for immunology research.
Prop 39 — Voter ID
Require identification for voting
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Prop 39 would require voters to show government-issued identification at the polls and order election officials to verify that all registered voters are U.S. citizens. Voters who cast a mail-in ballot would need to provide the last four digits of a government ID, such as a driver's license number. California currently requires residents to provide an ID and Social Security number to register to vote, but does not request ID at the polling place itself.
✅ Supporters Say
ID requirements at voting sites will strengthen voters' trust in California's election process, and most states already require voters to show some form of identification to vote.

Supported by: California Republican Party, Reform California, Uline CEO Richard Uihlein
❌ Opponents Say
Requiring ID will make it harder for eligible voters who don't have a driver's license or other supporting documents. Will disproportionately affect people with disabilities, low-income voters, and those who have recently moved.

Opposed by: ACLU, Common Cause, League of Women Voters, California Democratic Party
Vote YES means
You want voters to provide government-issued ID in person or by mail to vote.
Vote NO means
You don't want voters to be required to show ID to vote.
Prop 40 — Billionaire Tax
One-time 5% tax on ~200 California billionaires to fund healthcare & education
▼
⚠️ Read this with Props 41 and 42: Billionaires placed Props 41 and 42 on the ballot in direct response to Prop 40. If Props 41 OR 42 receive more YES votes than Prop 40, then Prop 40 is nullified — even if Prop 40 also passes. These three are interconnected.
Would require the estimated 200 Californians whose net worth exceeded $1 billion at the start of 2026 to pay a one-time 5% tax. Even if the billionaires have moved, if they lived in California prior to January 1, 2026 they would still owe the tax. SEIU projects it would raise roughly $100 billion over five years, earmarked primarily for healthcare with some for food assistance and education.
✅ Supporters Say
The people who would pay this tax benefited the most from recent federal tax reforms. Congress cut tens of billions from Medi-Cal — SEIU argues those cuts will cause hospitals and clinics to close, costing thousands of jobs and worsening access for all patients.

Supported by: SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West, Sen. Bernie Sanders, Teamsters CA, California Democratic Party
❌ Opponents Say
Will backfire — billionaires will leave California, decreasing long-term tax revenue. Health groups say they weren't consulted and it doesn't solve long-term fiscal challenges of funding healthcare.

Opposed by: California Business Roundtable, California Teachers Association, Planned Parenthood, California Professional Firefighters, crypto executive Chris Larsen
Vote YES means
YES on 40 + NO on 41 and 42 = you want the billionaire tax to move forward.
Vote NO means
You don't want the billionaire tax to happen.
Prop 41 — Audit New Tax Programs
Require audits of new special tax proposals before they go to voters
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⚠️ Connected to Prop 40: If Prop 41 receives more YES votes than Prop 40, it nullifies Prop 40 — even if Prop 40 also passes. Placed on the ballot by opponents of the billionaire tax.
Would make it harder to pass new special taxes by requiring the state auditor to review any special tax proposal before it goes to voters. The auditor would assess whether the program receiving funding could cut spending by at least 10% annually. Any new special tax approved by voters would count toward California's spending limit, potentially triggering automatic refunds.
✅ Supporters Say
Key social programs aren't getting enough funding despite California's high taxes. The state auditor should assess whether programs are spending money wisely before new special taxes are imposed.

Supported by: Reform California, Google co-founder Sergey Brin
❌ Opponents Say
Prop 41 is designed to trick voters into unknowingly blocking a wealth tax on billionaires. It's not really about auditing waste — it's a way for billionaires to avoid paying taxes on their huge wealth.

Opposed by: SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West, California Democratic Party, The Sacramento Bee, The San Francisco Chronicle
Vote YES means
You want the state auditor to review special tax proposals before they go to voters — AND you don't want the billionaire tax enacted.
Vote NO means
You don't want mandatory audits of special tax proposals — AND you want the billionaire tax enacted.
Prop 42 — Ban Wealth Taxes
Prohibit new taxes on the mere ownership of assets (investments, property, etc.)
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⚠️ Connected to Prop 40: Like Prop 41, if Prop 42 receives more YES votes than Prop 40, it nullifies Prop 40 — even if Prop 40 also passes. Placed on the ballot by opponents of the billionaire tax.
Would make it much harder to create a wealth tax in California by prohibiting new taxes on the mere ownership of assets — investment accounts, business interests, and personal property that are typically only taxed when sold or when they generate income.
✅ Supporters Say
California should not tax people for merely owning or controlling retirement accounts, financial portfolios, or personal possessions. Want to prevent taxes on unrealized gains — paper wealth that hasn't been sold or generated taxable revenue.

Supported by: Reform California, Building a Better California, Google co-founder Sergey Brin, Peace Officers Research Association of California
❌ Opponents Say
Prop 42 is designed to trick voters into making it impossible to apply a wealth tax to billionaires. It's not about protecting everyday people — it's a way for billionaires to avoid paying a one-time tax on their huge wealth.

Opposed by: SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West, California Democratic Party, The Sacramento Bee, The San Francisco Chronicle
Vote YES means
You want to prohibit new taxes on asset ownership — AND you don't want the billionaire tax enacted.
Vote NO means
You don't want to prohibit new taxes on asset ownership — AND you want the billionaire tax enacted.
Prop 43 — Higher Threshold for Local Taxes
Raise the vote threshold for citizen-driven local special tax measures from majority to two-thirds
▼
Would make it harder to impose or increase local taxes by raising the threshold for local citizen-driven special tax ballot initiatives to pass from a simple majority to two-thirds. Part of a deal between state lawmakers and the anti-tax Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association to keep a more restrictive tax proposal off the ballot.

Context: The two-thirds majority already applies to taxes proposed by local governments — but not for taxes proposed by individual citizens/groups, which only require a simple majority vote. This would level the threshold.

✅ Supporters Say
Special interest groups have exploited the simple majority threshold during low-turnout elections to pass special taxes.

Supported by: Reform California, Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association
❌ Opponents Say
Would limit the ability to raise needed revenue for local services and make it easier for moneyed interests to block tax initiatives that the majority of voters support.

Opposed by: SEIU Local 1000, California Democratic Party, The Sacramento Bee
Vote YES means
You want to require a two-thirds vote to pass local special tax measures.
Vote NO means
You want to keep the simple majority threshold for passing local special tax initiatives.
Prop 44 — Community Clinic Spending
Require community clinics to spend 90% of annual revenue on patient care
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Would require community clinics that serve low-income patients to spend 90% of their annual revenue on patient care. Directs the attorney general to publish guidance on what qualifies and allows the state to fine clinics that don't hit the 90% threshold.

Context: Most clinics in California already appear to use their funds responsibly. According to the Legislative Analyst's Office, clinics report spending an average of about 80% of their revenue on healthcare services.

✅ Supporters Say
Clinics should spend more on direct patient care and less on executive pay and overhead. With federal cuts under H.R. 1 expected to leave many more uninsured, it's especially critical for clinics to prioritize patient care now.

Supported by: SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West
❌ Opponents Say
Unnecessary because community clinics are already heavily regulated. Would cost clinics more than $1.7 billion in noncompliance fees in the first year, forcing clinics to significantly reduce services or close.

Opposed by: California Primary Care Association, California Democratic Party, Planned Parenthood Affiliates of California, The Sacramento Bee
Vote YES means
You want clinics to be required to spend 90% of their annual revenue on patient care.
Vote NO means
You do not want health care clinics required to spend 90% of their annual revenue on patient care.
Prop 45 — CEQA Reform
Speed up environmental reviews for housing and infrastructure
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Would limit reviews under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) — California's landmark environmental law. Placed on the ballot by the California Chamber of Commerce. Would impose a 365-day limit on environmental reviews for projects designated as "essential" — including housing, infrastructure like roads and bridges, schools, broadband and wildfire mitigation. Requires courts to rule within 270 days on lawsuits related to CEQA.

Context: Experts say this would be the largest rollback of CEQA since it was signed in 1970. The broadband piece is especially contested — opponents say it could apply to the warehouse-size data centers that voters around the country have pushed back against. Backers say it only applies to connecting rural communities with fiber. Legal experts say this may ultimately be decided in court if Prop 45 passes.

✅ Supporters Say
CEQA is outdated and creates expensive bureaucracy and frivolous litigation that slows development. Delays increase costs that are passed down to taxpayers and consumers. The measure will speed up development while keeping essential environmental protections in place.

Supported by: California Chamber of Commerce, California Republican Party, California Hospital Association, California Water Association, California Council for Affordable Housing, California Hispanic Chambers of Commerce
❌ Opponents Say
Would weaken California's environmental review law that exists to protect people and the environment from harmful developments. Would strip agencies of tools to protect communities and practically eliminate their ability to enforce the law.

Opposed by: California Labor Federation, California Democratic Party, California League of Women Voters, Sierra Club California, Clean Air Coalition, National Wildlife Federation
Vote YES means
You want to limit environmental review for projects developers designate as essential.
Vote NO means
You don't want to limit environmental review.
Measure H — Los Rios Community College District
🏫 Local measure · $1.1 billion bond for Los Rios college facilities
▼
⚠️ Local measure: Only on ballots in Sacramento and Yolo counties. Requires 55% majority to pass.
The Los Rios Community College District is asking voters in Sacramento and Yolo counties to approve a $1.1 billion bond to fund repairs and facility improvements at its colleges, education centers and district offices — including repairing roofs, modernizing classrooms, upgrading HVAC, improving security and constructing new buildings.

Context: The District estimates the average annual tax rate levy is $16.55 per $100,000 of assessed valuation. The final fiscal year the tax is anticipated to be collected will be 2050–51. New bonds would be repaid as older bonds are paid off — so the rate stays about the same, but the tax continues for more years. No funds can be used for administrator or teacher salaries or pensions.

✅ Supporters Say
Yes on H will prevent cuts to affordable higher education and help Los Rios Colleges stay self-reliant. Has strict accountability requirements: all spending publicly disclosed, no increase in taxes, all funds stay local.

Supported by: League of Women Voters, California Nurses Association, Democratic Party of Sacramento, the four Los Rios College presidents
❌ Opponents Say
While it doesn't raise taxes, it extends the tax to many future generations and runs up the payback bill to three times the loan amount. Critics also argue that half of existing buildings are empty or underused, calling the project list a "wishful grab bag."

Opposed by: Two of the seven trustees, including Robert Jones
Vote YES means
You want to allow the District to issue bonds not to exceed $1.1 billion.
Vote NO means
You do not want to allow the District to issue the proposed bonds.
Measure M — Sacramento City Unified School District
🏫 Local measure · Parcel tax for special education
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⚠️ Local measure: Only on ballots in the Sacramento City USD area. Requires two-thirds majority to pass.
Would levy a $95 per year Special Education tax (subject to annual inflation adjustments up to 3%) on each parcel of property in the district to fund special education until repealed or replaced by voters. Raises approximately $10 million annually. Exemptions for seniors including Social Security recipients and SSDI recipients.

Context: Sacramento City Unified educates over 36,600 students at 74+ schools. The district's special education population has grown significantly — from under 5,100 students a decade ago to over 7,500 today. The federal government promised to cover 40% of special ed costs; today it covers only 13%.

✅ Supporters Say
The federal government has failed to deliver on its promise to fund Special Education. The 7,000+ special needs children in Sacramento City Schools deserve the nurses, psychologists, counselors, qualified teachers, and social workers they need.

Supported by: Democratic Party of Sacramento County
❌ Opponents Say
Measure M is a tax that never expires. Starts at $95 per parcel and can rise up to 3% each year — potentially more than doubling in 30 years. Also creates no independent citizens' oversight committee.

Opposed by: Sacramento County Republican Party, Reform California, The Sacramento Bee
Vote YES means
You want to enact the special tax.
Vote NO means
You do not want to enact the special tax.