Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member Latest Breaking News Editorials & Other Articles General Discussion The DU Lounge All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

CaliforniaPeggy

(155,400 posts)
Thu Oct 9, 2025, 02:29 PM Oct 9

Does anyone know how early the ballots can be mailed in this special election?

I just filled mine out but didn't want to send it too early. Or is there such a thing?

10 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
Highlight: NoneDon't highlight anything 5 newestHighlight 5 most recent replies

Pachamama

(17,511 posts)
1. Best is to physically take it direct to election office
Thu Oct 9, 2025, 02:34 PM
Oct 9

That way you know it gets directly to the place that counts it. They usually have drop boxes for the ballots there and you can go take it in and do that. You should then within a few days get acknowledgment by text if you’re signed up that it was received.



This is what I do - I drive to the Marin County Civic Center and the Election office for my County. I get my “I voted” sticker and I know my ballot is where it needs to be.

CaliforniaPeggy

(155,400 posts)
2. We have a bunch of drop boxes nearby; I was planning to take it to a close one.
Thu Oct 9, 2025, 02:36 PM
Oct 9

It's at a local library, where I've done that before.

Thanks!

Mz Pip

(28,244 posts)
3. I always mail mine early
Thu Oct 9, 2025, 02:43 PM
Oct 9

I have a ballot tracker set up that notifies me when the PO receives it, then when the processing center receives it, then when it’s counted.

I haven’t received mine yet, but sure have been getting swamped with the No on 50 garbage.

usonian

(21,648 posts)
4. I am taking mine to the nuclear bunker lock box in front of the County Clerk's Office.
Thu Oct 9, 2025, 02:50 PM
Oct 9

Just before they pick up the ballots for the day.

And I use BallotTrax.

Pachamama

(17,511 posts)
9. Definitely use Ballottrax!
Fri Oct 10, 2025, 02:32 PM
Oct 10

I love that I get to see where my ballot is and the status - including on Election Day when I get the notice it was counted.

quaint

(4,253 posts)
6. Gave it to my postal carrier yesterday.
Thu Oct 9, 2025, 03:32 PM
Oct 9

Failed the eye exam, no longer able to drive my ballot but I also track it.

Grins

(8,968 posts)
7. Once the state mailed you your ballot - you can send it in.
Thu Oct 9, 2025, 04:36 PM
Oct 9

I’m in Virginia, use vote by mail, and get my ballot sent to me automatically every election (state option.)

For the November election:
- The board of elections sent me a TEXT message saying they mailed me my ballot.
- Two days later I had it.
- I mailed it the next morning.
- THAT AFTERNOON the postal service said they had it.
- Two days later the board of elections texted me they received it.
- On the date official counting began I received a TEXT message my ballot had been tabulated.

Note: If there was a problem the board of elections would have immediately texted me and given me the options to “cure” the ballot BEFORE voting ended.

quaint

(4,253 posts)
10. I received text and email this morning. Lightening fast after mailing.
Fri Oct 10, 2025, 05:20 PM
Oct 10

This is a message from the California Secretary of State on behalf of Orange County Registrar of Voters. Your ballot for the November 4, 2025, Statewide Special Election was received and counted. Thank you for voting!

Latest Discussions»Region Forums»California»Does anyone know how earl...