California Secretary of State

2 candidates · General election, November 3, 2026

What this office does

Usually the state's chief elections officer: certifies candidates and results and keeps the voter rolls. Also registers businesses and keeps official state records.

Candidates

Shirley N. WeberIncumbent

Democrat
Strongly left · from their state-legislature votes (Shor–McCarty)

Donald P. (Don) Wagner

Republican
Strongly right · from their state-legislature votes (Shor–McCarty)

Filled dots are published academic scores; hollow dots are AI estimates from the candidate's own public record. How placements work.

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Quick answers

Who is running for California Secretary of State in 2026?
Shirley N. Weber (Democrat) and Donald P. (Don) Wagner (Republican).
Who is the incumbent?
Shirley N. Weber currently holds this office.
What does this office do?
Usually the state's chief elections officer: certifies candidates and results and keeps the voter rolls. Also registers businesses and keeps official state records.
Who should I vote for in the California Secretary of State race?
SpectrumVote doesn't endorse anyone or tell you how to vote. Compare each candidate's record, funding, outside spending and endorsements on this page, then decide based on the issues that matter most to you. Enter your address at spectrumvote.com to see this race next to everything else on your ballot.
When is the election?
The general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Early voting and mail-ballot deadlines vary by state; check your state or county election office.

Not sure how to decide? Read our nonpartisan guide to the California ballot.