The June 2 California primary marks a significant election cycle for the state, with the governor's seat open due to term limits and multiple statewide executive positions and legislative seats on the ballot. Under California's "Top Two" primary system, the two candidates receiving the most votes—regardless of party affiliation—will advance to the November general election.
Voters have several critical deadlines to meet to ensure their ballots are counted. County officials are mailing ballots to all active registered voters, with ballot drop boxes available at official county locations. The last day to register online or by mail to receive a mailed ballot has passed, though voters who missed that deadline can conditionally register and vote in person at county elections offices or vote centers. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on election day, and any ballots mailed must be postmarked by June 2 and received by that date to count.
The governor's race represents the year's most prominent contest. Multiple candidates are competing for the open seat, which became available following constitutional term limits on the previous office holder.
Beyond the statewide races, Los Angeles County voters face several consequential local elections. Mayor Karen Bass is seeking a second term, with her campaign emphasizing her "Inside Safe" initiative focused on transitioning unhoused residents into permanent housing. She faces opposition from over a dozen challengers, with multiple candidates seeking attention in the crowded race.
LA County voters will also decide on two county board seats and sheriff positions, along with 15 judgeships in the Superior Court. The Los Angeles County Bar Association typically releases judicial ratings several weeks before the election to assist voters in evaluating candidates.
LA County uses Vote Centers rather than traditional neighborhood polling places, allowing voters to cast ballots at any center in the county regardless of residence. Many centers will open for early voting beginning May 23. Voters are advised to check their sample ballots at lavote.gov, as ballots vary significantly across the large county depending on specific address and local contests.
State officials have emphasized the importance of following voting procedures to avoid ballot disqualification. All active registered voters receive ballots, with signatures on return envelopes compared against those on file. Ballots mailed require no postage, but voters choosing mail-in voting on election day should obtain a hand-stamped postmark at a post office to guarantee counting. Drop boxes offer an alternative starting May 4, and residents in certain counties may access early voting at Vote Centers beginning 10 days before the primary.
