Jim Desmond

San Diego County voters face three measures this Election Day. Measure A would amend the county charter to create an independent ethics commission, add independent budget and program auditor roles, and raise supervisor term limits from two to three four-year terms, retroactively benefiting current board members. Measure B would impose a 0.5% countywide sales tax, directed mostly toward healthcare, nutrition, and family services, with a smaller share for Tijuana River Valley sewage cleanup and public safety, raising an estimated $400–450 million annually. Measure M authorizes a $3.5 billion school bond for San Diego Unified facility repairs without raising property tax rates, requiring 55% voter approval to pass.

California voters head to the polls in November to decide statewide and local races alongside 14 ballot propositions, including a closely watched "billionaires tax" measure and a recall-process reform. San Diego County's voter guide outlines a packed slate of contests, with voter pamphlets mailed in late September and ballots beginning to arrive October 5.

Key federal races include five competitive U.S. House districts (48–52), pitting incumbents and challengers from both parties after redistricting reshaped several seats. State Senate and Assembly races feature multiple incumbents defending seats, while the California State Board of Equalization's District 4 race pits a local water official against a sitting state senator.

Locally, San Diego County voters will also choose county supervisors, school board members, and city officials across numerous municipalities including San Diego, Chula Vista, Carlsbad, Escondido, Oceanside, and others, alongside mayoral races and special district seats covering healthcare, water, and community college boards. The wide-ranging ballot reflects a highly competitive election cycle across Southern California.