Voter Resources and FAQs

Voter Resources

• Vote by Mail FAQs
• Voter’s Edge - Find your ballot
• Vote Center & Locations
• Dominion Democracy Suite Voting System
• Remote Accessible Vote by Mail System
• Assistance for Voters with Disabilities

Frequently Asked Questions

If I drop my absentee ballot at the City Hall or Main Library drop boxes, will it just be kept in a pile and not be counted?
No, the ballots are picked up daily by SMC Elections staff and counted upon receipt. Voters can track the status of their ballots at california.ballottrax.net/voter.

If I vote early somewhere in person (using the machines) are those votes counted immediately or also not counted until election day?
Votes at a Vote Center are not cast until placed in the Ballot Box. Once placed in the ballot box the votes are counted daily upon closing. More information can be found at www.smcacre.org/post/vote-person.

I really don't like the district election format as the person I didn't have a chance to vote against can still end up being mayor eventually if they win a council seat in their district and it may not be someone I want representing me.
The Mayor and Vice Mayor are selected by the Council from its members in non-election years. During election years, the Mayor and Vice Mayor are selected after election results have been tabulated.

How much time do I have to return my Vote by Mail ballot?
Vote by Mail ballots must be received by the San Mateo County Registration & Elections Division on or before 8 p.m. on Election Day, or be postmarked on or before Election Day and received within 17 days after Election Day.