# California 2026 midterm election developments

> Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/california-midterm-election-voter-turnout
> Updated: 2026-11-02T21:40:27.000Z. Sources: 40. Developments: 2.

As the November 3 midterm elections approach, voter engagement remains high across several California regions. By November 1, at least 6.4 million residents had cast ballots. In Orange County, early voting data indicates that 324,987 registered voters, or nearly 40 percent of the registered population, have participated. This figure already surpasses the total turnout recorded during the 2022 midterm cycle.

The gubernatorial race to succeed Gavin Newsom, who is barred from a third term by state constitutional limits, features Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton. Newsom will remain in office until January 4, 2027. Other significant contests include races for lieutenant governor, secretary of state, and various local and judicial offices.

Voters are also deciding on several key propositions. Proposition 40 proposes a one-time 5 percent tax on billionaires with assets exceeding $1 billion to fund healthcare and education, a measure facing opposition from Propositions 41 and 42. Additionally, a proposed $11.25 billion bond aims to fund veteran assistance and affordable housing. 

Regional turnout patterns continue to vary. While San Francisco previously reported high engagement, Imperial County officials have counted approximately 17,000 ballots as of November 2, noting that participation percentages appear lower than those in the June primary.

## Claims

- Gavin Newsom cannot run for a third term due to state constitutional limits. (reported by 3 sources)
- The successor to Gavin Newsom is scheduled to assume office on January 4, 2027. (reported by 3 sources)
- A ballot proposition proposes a $11.25 billion bond for affordable housing. (reported by 3 sources)
- Approximately 17,000 ballots were counted in Imperial County as of the morning of November 2. (reported by 3 sources)
- At least 6.4 million people in California voted early as of November 1, 2026. (reported by 1 source)
- Xavier Becerra and Steve Hilton are candidates for the California governorship. (reported by 1 source)
- There are 23.4 million registered voters in California. (reported by 1 source)
- San Diego County voters are considering Propositions 40, 41, and 42. (reported by 1 source)

## Timeline

### 2026-11-02: Tina Kotek wins reelection as Oregon Governor

Democrat Tina Kotek has secured reelection as Oregon Governor, defeating Republican Christine Drazan in a rematch of their 2022 race.

20 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/orange-county-voter-turnout-exceeds-2022-midterm-levels

### 2026-11-01: California midterm elections feature gubernatorial race and key propositions

California voters head to the polls on November 3, 2026, to elect a successor to Governor Gavin Newsom and decide on critical propositions, including a billionaire tax and affordable housing bonds.

20 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/san-francisco-reports-high-early-voter-turnout-for-midterm-election

---
Cite as: California 2026 midterm election developments. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/california-midterm-election-voter-turnout