November 2020 Election Highlights

“The right to vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool or instrument in a democratic society. We must use it.” -Congressman John Lewis

To access your sample ballot based on the address you are registered to vote, please visit Ballotpedia here. 

Seat Elections

In addition to the presidential elections, there are multiple seats to consider based on your congressional, state, and local districts.

National: President, U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. House (select congressional districts)

State: State Senate, State Assembly

Local: District Attorney, Los Angeles Unified School District Board of Education, Superior Court of LA County, County Board of Supervisors

Statewide Ballot Measures

There are 12 statewide ballot measures and one Los Angeles County measure on the 2020 ballot. Items to consider range from criminal justice, employment classification for app-based transportation, and rent control. For more information on all statewide ballot measures, please visit the California Secretary of State website here. Below is a brief overview of select statewide propositions:

Proposition 15 – Schools and Communities First Initiative

Increases funding for K-12 public schools, community colleges, and local governments by requiring that commercial and industrial real property be taxed based on current market value (with exemptions). Estimates net increase in annual property tax revenues of $7.5 billion to $12 billion in most years, depending on the strength of real estate markets; $6.5 billion to $11.5 billion would be allocated to schools (40 percent) and other local governments (60 percent).

Proposition 16/ACA 5  – Affirmative Action in Government & Public Positions

Overturns existing legislation (Proposition 209) and allow for government and public institutions to consider “persons on the basis of race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin” in public employment, public education, and public contracting.

Proposition 17/ACA 6 – Free the Vote Act

Restores voting rights to over 50,000 Californians after release from prison, who are currently unable to vote in any local, state or federal elections despite working, paying taxes and raising families in California. Currently 19 other states and Washington, D.C, automatically restore voting rights upon release from prison or have no felony disenfranchisement whatsoever.

Proposition 18/ACA4 – Voting Age

Authorizes a United States citizen who is 17 years of age, is a resident of the state, and will be at least 18 years of age at the time of the next general election to vote in any primary or special election. Currently at least 19 other states and Washington D.C. allow 17-year-olds who would be eligible for the next general election to vote early.

Disclaimer: As a 501c3 organization, Children’s Institute is prohibited by federal tax law from supporting or opposing candidates for public office or telling people how to vote, directly or indirectly. This document is solely educational and to encourage your civic engagement.