In preparation for the upcoming November 4, 2025 Special Election, California Attorney General Rob Bonta and Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber held a press conference in Los Angeles to inform residents about voting procedures, encourage early participation, and remind law enforcement agencies of laws safeguarding the election process.
“This year, it is critical that Californians vote as early as possible. In many parts of California, recent changes in the U.S. Postal mail service mean that your ballot may not be counted if you drop it off at a post office on Election Day. If you choose to drop off your ballot at a post office on Election Day, ask at the counter for a postmark to ensure you get credit for mailing your ballot on time. And remember: You have other options, like dropping your ballot off at a vote center or in a secure drop box,” said Attorney General Rob Bonta. “Our election laws provide the backbone for a free and fair election, and as California’s top law enforcement officer, I will do everything in my power to protect your right to vote.”
Secretary of State Weber added: “Your vote is your voice, and California protects its citizens’ rights to use their voice through their vote. Vote-by-mail ballots will be mailed to all active registered voters no later than October 6, 2025, and voters have several options for returning their completed ballot early. Voters can contact their county elections office at sos.ca.gov/elections/voting-resources/county-elections-offices for information about vote centers, drop boxes, and their voting options. Voters can also sign up to track their ballot at WheresMyBallot.sos.ca.gov. Every Californian has the right to cast a ballot free from intimidation, harassment, or coercion. And anyone who is subject to, or witnesses any type of, voter interference should report it to my office, their county elections office, or to elections workers on site.”
Officials highlighted concerns over changes in mail collection times by the U.S. Postal Service that could delay ballots dropped off on Election Day from being postmarked until after the deadline if deposited more than 50 miles from a regional processing hub. As a result of these operational adjustments by USPS—where collection from certain rural or remote locations now occurs the day after deposit rather than same-day—voters are advised to return ballots before Election Day or seek an immediate postmark when using postal facilities.
Alternative methods were outlined for submitting ballots securely and promptly: using official drop boxes beginning October 7; delivering ballots directly at vote centers; requesting counter service at post offices for timely postmarks; or ensuring mail submission several days ahead of November 4.
The officials also addressed online misinformation risks related to voting procedures and eligibility. The Department of Justice published updated guidance warning against intentional deception regarding voter eligibility or polling information.
The press conference reiterated key elements from the California Voter Bill of Rights such as access for those still in line when polls close; language assistance where needed; privacy protections; provisional balloting; support with casting votes (excluding employers or union representatives); and mechanisms for reporting violations through confidential hotlines and online resources.
Voters with disabilities remain protected under federal statutes including the Voting Rights Act of 1965—which guarantees assistance by choice—and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for accessible polling places and equipment. The state’s own Voter’s Choice Act mandates compliance with these accessibility standards across voting centers.
Law enforcement agencies received reminders via bulletins about prohibitions against intimidation tactics near polling places—including restrictions on firearms possession within proximity of voting sites—and bans on apparel that might suggest unauthorized security roles during elections.
Election officials plan statewide deployment of poll observers during both early voting periods and Election Day itself.
Californians must register by October 20 via registertovote.ca.gov but can utilize Same Day Voter Registration after this date if needed.
