Over 4.5 Million California Voters Cast Ballots Ahead of Election

UPDATE: More than 4.5 million ballots have already been cast in California’s special election on redistricting, a significant surge just days before Election Day on November 4, 2025. Voters are returning their ballots at an unprecedented rate, according to the California Secretary of State’s office.

As of October 26, nearly 20% of registered voters in the state have participated, a notable increase compared to previous elections at this stage. This includes approximately 15% in Los Angeles County and 22% in Orange County. The rapid ballot return could signal greater engagement among voters, although experts caution it is too early to predict overall turnout.

Paul Mitchell, vice president of Political Data Inc., noted that the pace of ballot returns is faster than during the last presidential election. He emphasized that the simplicity of having a single item—Prop. 50—on the ballot may be contributing to this trend. “We have a faster return of ballots than prior statewide elections,” Mitchell explained, “but it’s unclear if that translates to increased turnout.”

Prop. 50 seeks to implement new congressional maps that many argue are gerrymandered to favor Democrats. Governor Gavin Newsom and proponents argue it is a necessary measure to counteract Republican gerrymandering efforts in other states aiming to secure additional congressional seats.

Critics from both parties have accused each other of attempting to manipulate the electoral process. As the election date approaches, in-person voting is also available, with early voting centers having opened over the weekend.

Voters are reminded that ballots mailed to them include prepaid postage and must be postmarked by Election Day, arriving at county election offices no later than seven days after November 4 to be counted.

With the stakes high and voter turnout on the rise, California’s special election is poised to be a significant event in shaping the state’s political landscape. Keep an eye on the developments as we approach Election Day—every vote matters.