Santa Cruz Local’s guide to the Nov. 5, 2024 election

Santa Cruz Local’s Election Guide provides nonpartisan information on Santa Cruz County candidates and ballot measures in the Nov. 5 election. Santa Cruz Local is a nonprofit news outlet that does not endorse candidates or take positions on ballot measures. Read our ethics statement.

This Election Guide will explain the races for Santa Cruz County Supervisor, Watsonville City Council, Scotts Valley City Council, Capitola City Council, as well as school board races and ballot measures in Santa Cruz County.

View all Santa Cruz County races and measures here and check back for updates. We plan to finish this Election Guide by Oct. 7.

Not sure what to expect on your ballot? Look up which districts you vote in here.

How this guide was made

At other news outlets, reporters and editors decide the questions for candidates without necessarily consulting voters or residents. Santa Cruz Local puts the power in voters’ hands.

  • This summer, Santa Cruz Local surveyed and interviewed hundreds of residents about their concerns and questions for the candidates.
  • Residents’ feedback informed the questions we asked candidates and helped guide our elections reporting.

State and regional races

The CalMatters Voter Guide has information on the roles of a state assemblymember, state senator, U.S. representative and U.S. senator.

Frequently asked questions about voting and ballots

Register to vote here. The last day to register to vote and receive a mail ballot and voter information guide in the mail is Oct. 21. Voters can still register and vote as late as on election day, Nov. 5.

Ballots are expected to be mailed to registered voters beginning Oct. 7. Sign up for email or text alerts to track your ballot.

Oct. 21 is the last day to register to vote for the Nov. 5, 2024 election and receive a ballot and voter guide in the mail.

Spanish ballots and voting guides will be mailed to voters who have requested them on their registration form.

To request a Spanish ballot and voting guide by mail or email, email [email protected] or call 831-454-2060.

Spanish voting materials will be available at all in-person voting locations.

  • Santa Cruz County residents can sign up before polls close on Nov. 5 to get a ballot by email. Sign up on the county elections website.
  • You’ll need an email address, computer and printer.
  • Ballots must be returned by mail, at a drop box or a voting location.
  • Questions? 831-454-2060.

You can register to vote even if you don’t have a mailing address. The county elections website has details.