Imperial County, CA – The Imperial County Registrar of Voters’ Office is aware that some voters have received more than one ballot for the November 3, 2026, General Election.
Due to a mailing error, approximately 160 voters with confidential voter status were sent an additional ballot, even though they had already been included in the original ballot mailing.
The error occurred as the Registrar of Voters’ Office was updating its procedures to follow changes in California law. Beginning January 1, 2026, elected officials and candidates for public office became eligible for confidential voter status, requiring changes to how their ballots are processed and mailed.
“We understand that receiving more than one ballot may cause confusion, and we take that concern seriously. Although this mailing error affected approximately 160 confidential voters, our commitment to conducting a secure and accurate election remains unchanged,” said Registrar of Voters Linsey Dale.
Why might someone receive more than one ballot?
There are other situations where a voter may receive an additional ballot. For example, this can happen when someone updates their voter registration information or when the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) sends updated information close to Election Day.
The Registrar of Voters’ Office prepares its ballot mailing lists about eight weeks before an election. If a voter’s information changes after those lists are prepared, another ballot may be mailed to reflect the updated information.
Can someone vote more than once?
No. Receiving two ballots does not mean a person can vote twice.
“We have safeguards in place to ensure that only one ballot is accepted and counted for each eligible voter in accordance with California law.” Linsey Dale added.
Voting more than once in the same election is illegal and may result in criminal penalties.
What should voters do if they receive two ballots?
Voters who receive more than one ballot or have questions about their ballot are encouraged to contact the Registrar of Voters’ Office for assistance via Phone: 442-265-1060.
The Registrar of Voters’ Office remains committed to providing a secure, accurate, and transparent election process for all Imperial County voters.