2026 Primary Election Guide

Measure E is a June 2026 ballot measure asking Oakland voters to approve a new parcel tax to fund public safety and city services, officially known as the 2026 Public Safety & Cleanliness Act. This proposed parcel tax would give the city budget the needed funding to operate in the 2025 - 2027 fiscal year.

It proposes a $192 annual tax on single-family homes to generate roughly $34 million annually for nine years to fund police, fire services, and address homelessness. Low-income households and seniors can apply for exemptions from the tax. The proposal also includes mandatory independent audits and a citizen oversight committee.

Would provide tax relief to businesses that gross under $1 million per year and new companies of any size. The relief would cut business tax bills in 2027.

Oakland has a special retirement fund for police officers and firefighters that closed to new members in 1976. It’s called “PFRS.” This measure would expand eligibility for the PFRS board and reduce the number of required board meetings.

This June, voters in Alameda County will have the opportunity to elect their District Attorney.

The DA plays a critical role in shaping the local justice system. From deciding which cases to prosecute to setting broader policies that impact public safety, accountability, and fairness across our communities. These decisions affect all of us.

Want to understand what the DA does and why this race matters? Check out our Know Your DA resource page to learn more and make an informed choice this election.

Measure A would renew an existing parcel tax that currently funds the Peralta Community College District and is set to expire in 2028.

If approved, Measure A would continue the tax at $48 per parcel per year for another nine years, generating about $8 million annually to support local community colleges. This funding helps maintain classes, student services, and campus operations at schools like Laney College and Merritt College.

Why it matters:
This measure determines whether a stable, local funding source continues for community colleges that serve thousands of students across the East Bay.

The Superintendent leads the Alameda County Office of Education, supporting school districts with funding oversight, programs, and services for students—especially those with higher needs.

Why it matters: This role shapes educational quality, equity, and resources for thousands of students across the county.

Judges on the Alameda County Superior Court oversee criminal, civil, family, and juvenile cases, making decisions that interpret and apply the law.

Why it matters: Judges directly impact justice, sentencing, and legal outcomes that affect individuals, families, and community trust in the legal system.

Trustees on the Alameda County Board of Education set policies, approve budgets, and provide oversight for county-level education programs.

Why it matters: They influence how education policy is implemented locally, including support for vulnerable student populations.

The Alameda County Sanitary District manages wastewater treatment, recycling, and environmental services for parts of the county.

Why it matters: This district protects public health, water quality, and the environment—services people rely on every day, even if they’re less visible.

Members of the California State Assembly represent their districts at the state level. They introduce and vote on laws, approve the state budget, and advocate for local needs in Sacramento.

Why it matters:
State Assemblymembers make decisions that directly affect daily life—housing policy, tenant protections, education funding, healthcare access, public safety, and environmental laws. Your vote helps decide who represents your community’s priorities and voices in state government.

The United States House of Representatives is part of Congress. Representatives from each district propose and vote on federal laws, set the national budget, and address issues like healthcare, immigration, climate policy, and economic relief.

Why it matters:
Your representative helps shape national policy and brings federal resources back to the district. Voting in this race influences decisions that go far beyond the local level but still impact your community—from infrastructure funding to civil rights protections.

The Governor of California is the state’s chief executive, responsible for proposing the state budget, signing or vetoing laws, overseeing state agencies, and responding to emergencies.

Why it matters: The governor sets the overall direction for California—shaping policies on housing, education, public safety, climate, and more.

The Lieutenant Governor of California serves as acting governor when needed and sits on influential boards like the University of California Regents and State Lands Commission.

Why it matters: This role has a direct say in higher education and natural resources, and can step into executive power if the governor is unavailable.

The California Secretary of State oversees elections, voter registration, campaign finance filings, and business registrations.

Why it matters: This office helps ensure elections are fair, accessible, and secure—making it central to the health of our democracy.

The California State Controller is the state’s chief fiscal officer, managing public funds, auditing government agencies, and tracking state spending.

Why it matters: The controller provides transparency and accountability for how taxpayer dollars are used.

The California State Treasurer manages the state’s investments, bond sales, and financing for infrastructure like schools and housing.

Why it matters: This role influences long-term financial health and funding for major public projects.

The California Attorney General is the state’s top lawyer, enforcing laws, overseeing the Department of Justice, and defending California in court.

Why it matters: The attorney general shapes criminal justice policy, consumer protections, and how state laws are enforced.

The California Insurance Commissioner regulates the insurance industry, approves rates, and handles consumer complaints about insurers.

Why it matters: This office directly impacts the cost and availability of insurance, especially important for health, housing, and climate-related risks like wildfires.

The California State Board of Equalization handles property tax oversight, appeals, and certain tax programs. District 2 represents a large portion of the Bay Area.
Why it matters: Decisions from this board affect property tax fairness and can impact funding for local services like schools and infrastructure.