20 MONTEREY COUNTY WEEKLY MAY 7-13, 2026 www.montereycountynow.com Our endorsements for local, state and federal races in the June 2 primary election. By the Editorial Board DOWN BALLOT In the last midterm primary election, in 2022, only 31 percent of registered voters in Monterey County returned a ballot. That was despite a number of crowded races for consequential seats (six contenders for county supervisor, four for sheriff). We hope that this midterm primary election, on Tuesday, June 2, is better. Participation is critical, especially in local elections, where just a vote or two can change the outcome. Your vote matters, and your right to vote is not something to take for granted as President Donald Trump and his administration strategize about how to undermine trust and integrity of our electoral system. We hope that’s enough of a pep talk to motivate you to return your ballot, which has never been easier. But we hope it also motivates you to learn a little bit about the candidates seeking your vote, and some of what they represent. The Weekly editorial board interviewed candidates for several offices in person, and others via email questionnaire; we also base our assessment on the records of the candidates. (We have not made endorsements in all state races—you’ll also see lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general, state treasurer, state controller, insurance commissioner and Board of Equalization member on your ballot. We recommend consulting a voter guide from CalMatters for more information, online at calmatters. org/california-voter-guide-2026.) In races with more than two candidates, the top two finishers will go to a runoff in November, regardless of political party. Early voting began on May 4, and Early voting and vote-bymail has already begun for the June 2 primary. DANIEL DREIFUSS
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