With 2026 General Election Day coming up on Tuesday, Nov. 3, there are many things to review and know before casting your vote.

What is a Midterm Election

A midterm election marks the halfway point of a U.S. president’s term. These elections are important as they allow voters to influence the balance of power in Congress and choose which representatives reflect their beliefs and interests. The results of these elections also affect how easily the president can continue on with their agenda.

What will appear on the ballot

Many statewide and local candidates are running for office during the 2026 General Election. The following candidates will appear on the ballot:

• Governor, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, Controller, Treasurer, Attorney General, Insurance Commissioner, Member of State Board of Equalization and Superintendent of Public Instruction
• U.S. House of Representatives and Member of the State Assembly
• Supreme Court Justices and other local candidates
• 14 California Ballot Propositions

How to cast your votes

Vote by Mail

All registered voters should’ve received a ballot in the mail in early October. Ballots can be returned to any Vote by Mail Ballot Drop Box location, by mail or at any Vote Center. It is recommended to return your Vote by Mail ballot at least 7 days prior to Election Day.

Early Voting before Election Day

Early voting begins on Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. The Los Angeles voting locator can be used to find a voting center offering early voting near you.

Election Day Voting

In-person voting will begin at 7 a.m. and conclude at 8 p.m. You can find your closest voting location by using the Los Angeles voting locator.

Mobile Vote Centers

Mobile Vote Centers started in 2020 to give everyone an equal opportunity to cast their vote if they couldn’t vote in person. You can view the Los Angeles Mobile Vote Center schedule on their website.

Same-day Voter Registration

Conditional Voter Registration is available during the 11-day voting period at any Vote Center for those who missed the Oct. 19 voter registration deadline.

Nearby Voting Centers

Reseda Church of Christ – 7806 Reseda Blvd, Reseda, CA 91335

Rinaldi Adult Center – 17450 Rinaldi St, Granada Hills, CA 91344

Vietnamese Association of SFV – 7245 Corbin Ave, Winnetka, CA 91306

Nearby Ballot Drop-Off Locations

Northridge Branch Library – 9051 Darby Ave, Northridge, CA 91325-2743

Northridge Park Aquatic Center – 10058 Reseda Blvd, Northridge, CA 91324

Granada Hills Branch Library – 10640 Petit Ave, Granada Hills, CA 91344-6452

Reminders for CSUN Students

CSUN’s Vote Center is located at Redwood Hall in Room 180. The center is open for early voting from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. starting Saturday, Oct. 24. On Election Day, the center will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

CSUN’s Vote by Mail Ballot Box is located on the curb of Redwood Hall, facing Parking Lot F5. Free public parking spaces for the Vote Center and Ballot Drop-off will be available in Lot F5. Students with parking permits are advised to leave these spots open for community members.