Secretary of State of California Urges Voter Registration Before Midnight Deadline

California’s 2025 Special Election: Last Chance to Register with Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber

California’s political landscape is buzzing as the November 4, 2025, Statewide Special Election approaches. Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., has issued a critical reminder: the deadline to register to vote online or by mail for this election is midnight tonight, October 20, 2025. With key ballot measures and local races at stake, the role of the Secretary of State of California is pivotal in ensuring every eligible voter can participate.

Why the 2025 Special Election Matters

This election, though not a presidential year, is far from ordinary. From local referendums to critical legislative seats, the outcomes will shape California’s future. The Secretary of State of California, Shirley N. Weber, emphasizes that voting is a cornerstone of democracy. “Your vote is your power to influence California’s communities and policies,” Weber said. “Don’t miss the chance to make your voice heard.”

What’s on the Ballot?

• Statewide Ballot Measures: Propositions addressing education funding, environmental policies, and public safety.
• Local Elections: Competitive city council and school board races that will impact community decisions.
• Legislative Seats: Special elections to fill vacant seats, influencing California’s legislative direction.

Voter Registration Deadline: Act Now

The Secretary of State of California oversees voter registration, and tonight’s deadline is critical. Here’s how to register:

• Online: Visit registertovote.ca.gov before 11:59 p.m. Pacific Time. The system syncs with the California DMV for quick verification.
• By Mail: Registration forms must be postmarked by October 20, 2025. Forms are available at libraries, post offices, or the Secretary of State’s website.

Missed the deadline? Conditional Voter Registration (CVR) allows eligible voters to register and vote provisionally at county elections offices or polling places from October 21 to November 4, 2025.

Who Needs to Register or Update?

Californians must register or update their voter information if they:

• Moved to a new address.
• Changed their legal name.
• Want to switch political party affiliation.

The Secretary of State of California reports that outdated registrations are a common issue, especially post-pandemic with increased relocations. Weber’s office urges voters to verify their status at vote.ca.gov.

How the Secretary of State Ensures Accessible, Secure Elections

Under Shirley N. Weber’s leadership, the Secretary of State of California has prioritized election integrity and accessibility. Key initiatives include:

• Cybersecurity Enhancements: The Voting Systems Technology Assessment Advisory Board (VSTAAB) strengthens defenses against cyber threats.
• Voter’s Choice Act (VCA): In participating counties, voters receive mail-in ballots automatically and can vote via mail, drop boxes, or in-person vote centers.
• Risk-Limiting Audits (RLAs): Post-election audits ensure vote accuracy, with every mail-in ballot trackable via unique barcodes.

Weber’s office also combats misinformation through the “Trusted Info 2025” campaign, encouraging voters to rely on official sources like vote.ca.gov and county election websites.

Key Election Dates

• October 20, 2025: Deadline to register online or by mail (postmarked).
• October 21 – November 4, 2025: Conditional Voter Registration period.
• October 28, 2025: Recommended mailing date for vote-by-mail ballots.
• November 4, 2025: Election Day (ballots must be postmarked by this date and received by November 11).

Digital Tools for Voters

The Secretary of State of California offers robust online resources:

• Register or check status at registertovote.ca.gov.
• Track ballots with BallotTrax at vote.ca.gov.
• Access the Official Voter Information Guide in multiple languages.
• Locate polling places and view sample ballots.

These tools make participation seamless, empowering voters to stay informed and engaged.

Boosting Youth Voter Engagement

The Secretary of State of California has prioritized young voters through the Pre-Registration Program, allowing 16- and 17-year-olds to pre-register for automatic activation at 18. Partnerships with schools and social media campaigns have driven a surge in Gen Z registration, with Weber’s office reporting a steady rise in youth participation.

County Preparations and Community Efforts

California’s 58 counties, guided by the Secretary of State of California, are readying for Election Day:

• Los Angeles County: Offers multilingual vote centers and accessible voting machines.
• Smaller Counties: Expanding early voting and drop box access under the Voter’s Choice Act.

Community groups like the League of Women Voters and California Common Cause are amplifying Weber’s message, hosting webinars and outreach to engage first-time voters, rural residents, and non-English speakers.

Voter Turnout and What’s at Stake

Analysts predict strong turnout for this special election, driven by high-profile ballot measures and competitive local races. However, the Secretary of State of California notes that nearly 2 million eligible voters remain unregistered, particularly young people and recent movers. Weber urges these voters to use CVR if they miss tonight’s deadline.

Conclusion: Your Vote, Your Voice

As the Secretary of State of California, Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., reminds us, “Democracy thrives when we all participate.” Whether registering online tonight, mailing a form, or using conditional registration, every Californian has a path to vote. Visit registertovote.ca.gov before midnight to ensure your voice shapes California’s future on November 4, 2025.