61 candidates for one job: Why you’ll want to open those voter guides early

61 candidates for one job: Why you’ll want to open those voter guides early

Ventura County election officials are sending three critical mailings to Simi Valley homes to prepare voters for the upcoming June primary.

(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — Local mailboxes will soon fill with official documents as the Ventura County Clerk-Recorder begins a massive outreach effort. Residents should look for a postcard arriving this week that outlines the full voting schedule. This first mailing serves as a formal reminder to update registration details before the deadline. County officials want every active voter to understand their options for returning ballots. 

The state and county will follow the postcard with two detailed information guides by late April. The state guide arrives as a single copy for each household. It covers massive races like the contest for Governor and other statewide offices. The county guide covers local contests and the state and federal offices elected by district locally, and each voter in a household receives their own copy. These guides allow residents to study the massive field of candidates from their own living rooms.

California uses a top-two primary system where the highest vote-getters advance regardless of party. The current list shows over 60 candidates running for the governorship alone. Voters must also choose representatives for the state legislature and the United States Congress. Having these guides early helps neighbors navigate the long list of names. Reading the materials prevents confusion when the actual ballot arrives in May. Simi Valley voters can also access these same documents through official websites if they prefer digital copies.

The Ventura County Clerk-Recorder emphasizes that none of these election materials will follow you if you move. The postal service does not forward ballots or voter guides to new addresses. Residents who receive mail for a previous tenant should write “not at this address” on the envelope. Returning these items to the mail helps the county keep voter rolls accurate. This simple act prevents ballots from sitting in the wrong hands. It also ensures that every legitimate voter receives their materials at the correct residence.

Ballots will officially head to mailboxes starting on May 4 for all registered residents. Voters can return these by mail or drop them at secure boxes throughout the city. Those who prefer the physical booth can visit vote centers starting May 23. Early voting reduces the long lines typically seen on the final Tuesday. The county recommends finishing the process well before the June 2 deadline. This ensures the postal service has enough time to process every envelope.

The success of the local election depends on residents engaging with these three mailings as they arrive. Planning a voting strategy now prevents last-minute stress during a busy election cycle. Simi Valley residents who monitor their mail will ensure their voices help shape the future of the state. These documents provide the tools needed to participate in the democratic process with confidence. Making a plan today keeps the local election running smoothly for everyone in the community.