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The Brief

Orange County's November 2026 Elections: Key Races and Measures to Watch

Voters across Orange County will decide on several pivotal municipal elections and local measures on November 3, 2026.

As November 3, 2026, approaches, Orange County residents are preparing for a series of significant municipal elections and local measures that could reshape the region's political landscape. From city council seats to proposed charter changes, these decisions will have lasting impacts on local governance and community services. **City of Orange** The City of Orange is set to hold its General Municipal Election on November 3, 2026. Voters will elect a new mayor and fill three city council seats representing Districts 1, 4, and 6. Notably, the election will also include three local measures: - **Measure I**: A proposed sales tax increase aimed at funding city services. - **Measure J**: A transient occupancy tax measure targeting short-term rental properties. - **Measure K**: A proposed charter amendment to update the city's governing document. These measures reflect the city's efforts to address funding needs and governance modernization. The candidate filing period for these positions has been extended until August 12, 2026, due to the incumbent's decision not to seek re-election in District 6. **City of Anaheim** Anaheim's General Municipal Election is also scheduled for November 3, 2026. The ballot will include the mayoral race and council seats for Districts 2, 3, and 6. The city clerk's office is overseeing the candidate nomination process, with information available on the city's official website. **City of Rancho Santa Margarita** Rancho Santa Margarita will conduct its General Municipal Election on November 3, 2026, to fill one council member position in each of Districts 1, 2, and 4. The Secretary of State's office has conducted a randomized alphabet drawing to determine the order of candidates' names on the ballot. **City of Aliso Viejo** Aliso Viejo's General Municipal Election is set for November 3, 2026. Voters will elect council members for Districts 2 and 3. Notably, the election for District 4 was canceled by the city council on August 19, 2026, following the appointment of Tiffany Ackley as the sole qualified candidate. **City of Laguna Hills** Laguna Hills will hold its General Municipal Election on November 3, 2026, to elect one council member from each of Districts 1, 2, and 4. The nomination period for these positions concluded on August 7, 2026. **Countywide Measures** In addition to city-specific elections, countywide measures are on the ballot. For instance, the Orange County Board of Supervisors has been involved in various initiatives, including the "OC Cares: 2025 Vision Report," which outlines coordinated care management for justice-involved individuals. **Why It Matters** These elections and measures are crucial for residents as they directly influence local policies, funding allocations, and community services. Engaging in the electoral process ensures that community needs and priorities are effectively represented in local governance. **Sources:** - City of Orange Elections Information | - City of Anaheim Elections Information | - City of Rancho Santa Margarita Election Information | - City of Aliso Viejo Elections & Voter Information | - City of Laguna Hills Elections Information | - OC Cares: 2025 Vision Report | Residents are encouraged to stay informed about these developments and participate actively in the upcoming elections to shape the future of their communities.

ℹ️ Researched and summarized from public reporting. Check the sources below.

Sources

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