Upcoming Governor Recall Election
The upcoming Gubernatorial Recall Election to remove Governor Gavin Newsom from office is on Tuesday, September 14, 2021. Here’s what you need to know.
Starting on August 16, 2021, ballots are being mailed to registered voters for the election. The deadline to register to vote or update your address for this election is August 30, 2021. You can check your current registration or register to vote here in one of nine languages:
For Alameda County residents, you can also call 510-272-6973 for a form or visit their office in person at 1225 Fallon Street, Oakland, CA 94612.
For Contra Costa County residents, call 925-335-7800 or visit in person at 555 Escobar Street, Martinez, CA 94533.
Forms are also available at all public libraries, post offices, and DMV offices.
The official ballot is written in 3 languages: English, Spanish and Chinese. For other languages, contact your county.
Your Ballot Has Two Parts
The recall ballot is double-sided with two parts:
Part 1: Vote either YES or NO on the question to remove current Governor Gavin Newsom from office.
Part 2: Voters can choose a replacement candidate from the list.
- If more than 50% of the voters vote YES to recall the Governor, then the replacement candidate with the most votes is elected to fill the unexpired term of the Governor, which expires January 2023.
- If more than 50% of the voters vote NO on the recall, then the recall fails and the Governor will remain in office.
- You can vote NO on the question of removing the Governor from office and also vote for a replacement candidate.
- You don’t have to vote on both parts of the recall ballot.
- There will be no other items on your ballot.
Learn about the 46 official candidates can be found at Voters Edge Official Candidates Information.
Ways to Return Your Ballot
Ways to return your ballot:
- By mail. No postage required. Must be postmarked by 8:00 p.m. Election Day, Tuesday, September 14.
- Drop Off. At any ballot drop box until 8:00 p.m. Election Day.
- In Person. At any Vote Center or Registrar’s Office by 8:00 p.m. Election Day.
If you are unable to return your ballot, you can ask someone you trust to return your ballot.
You must sign the back of the envelope for your vote to count!
There are no polling places for this election. If you’d like to vote in person, you may go to any Vote Center in Alameda County.
There are numerous Vote Centers in both counties that are accessible to people with disabilities and offer language assistance in Spanish, Chinese and several other languages. Voters can also register, vote, and return their ballot at these locations.
Check on your county website for early voting center hours. All voting centers will be open on Tuesday, September 14 Election Day: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
More Election Information
You can also learn much more about this important election at the California Secretary of State Election Website.
We believe it's vital to participate in all elections. Thank you for your doing your part.