Anomalies Define the 2022 California Primaries
Unprecedented Resignation, Redistricting, and Unique U.S. Senate Voting Characterize this Election Cycle
California voters have their work cut out for them this primary election cycle. In a complex local and national midterm year, voters will grapple with a gubernatorial primary, recalls of progressive DAs, and other competitive races occurring in districts throughout California.
Data indicates that voters generally favor incumbents. This year, however, voters will have to overcome California’s recent “Great Resignation,” where an unusually high number of legislators are not seeking re-election in November. Astonishingly, 26 members of the legislature are opting out of re-election and resigning before their full term is over, a data point increase from the 2020 cycle.
Redrawn Districts
Many California voters will have a new representative appear on their primary ballot, creating a unique and unfamiliar territory for voting in this year’s election cycle. California residents can find their new district on this website: Redrawn districts.
“Top-two” Primary System
California has a “top-two primary” system, which was established in 2011 to counter excessive gridlock and the deepening divide between political parties. All candidates (regardless of party affiliation) are listed on one ballot for the primary election and the top two vote-getters advance to the general election in November.
Bay Area Races
The competitive nature of California’s primary election is reflected in tight Bay Area races. Positions such as the San Jose Mayor and the Sheriff of Santa Clara County are open for contention. In the mayoral contest, Dev Davis, Matt Mahan, and Raul Peralez will challenge incumbent Santa Clara County Supervisor Cindy Chavez. Sheriff Laurie Smith will not seek re-election, citing corruption investigations–opening the door for a competitive race.
Senate Primaries
Voters may notice an anomaly on their ballots with the election for the U.S. Senate appearing twice. Alex Padilla, California’s first Hispanic senator, was appointed by Governor Newsom to fill the vacant seat of Vice President Kamala Harris. Voters will decide whether Senator Padilla should serve the remainder of his designated term from November to Jan. 3, in addition to voting on who will serve the traditional six-year term.
Governor’s Race
After last year’s failed recall, the CA GOP is splintered. Prominent candidates for Governor include:
Anthony Trimino, a Republican candidate who is the CEO of TRAFFIK, an Integrated Marketing & Advertising Agency
Luis Javier Rodriguez, a Green Party candidate advocating for a single-payer healthcare system
Reinette Senum, a non-party affiliate who was a two-time mayor and city council member of Nevada City, California
You can find additional information about candidates for the gubernatorial primary election here.
How California Residents Can Vote
County election offices began mailing ballots on May 9, and the deadline to register to vote in the June 7 Primary Election is May 23. To ensure that the ballot is accepted, (1) fill it out with a blue or black ink pen, (2) seal and sign the envelope, (3) ensure the ballot envelope is postmarked by Election Day.
Information for voter registration: registertovote.ca.gov
Ballot tracking: wheresmyballot.sos.ca.gov