OpenCampaign

2026 election issues

Voter turnout and changing electorate

Orange County has shifted from reliably Republican toward purple, with declining GOP registration and rising Democratic and independent shares. Midterm turnout has historically lagged presidential years significantly, and lower 2022 turnout (versus 2020) means who shows up in 2026 could decide whether the electorate looks more like the older or newer Orange County.

Where do you stand?

What should Orange County prioritize regarding voter turnout and participation in midterm elections?

How important is this to you?

Sources

Public Policy Institute of California — https://www.ppic.org/blog/tectonic-shifts-in-orange-county
Voter turnout will be the political wildcard in Orange County. Since 2000, Orange County’s voter turnout in midterms has been on average 21 points lower than in presidential elections. Low turnout this year would be a throwback to the “old” Orange County electorate—more Republicans and whites. A high turnout would reflect the “new” Orange County—more Democrats, independents, and nonwhites.
OC Forum panel discussion — https://www.instagram.com/reel/DP62yrFCuHI
Orange County turnout fell from 87 percent in 2020 to 55 percent in 2022, and 552,293 fewer people cast a ballot. November 3, 2026 Midterm
Positions on this issue  ·  liberal → conservative
  1. Fund expansive public registration, same-day options, and outreach aimed at higher youth and nonwhite turnout
  2. Support nonpartisan get-out-the-vote efforts and easier access while protecting election integrity
  3. Keep current election administration with modest voter-education campaigns
  4. Focus on secure voting procedures first and avoid turnout programs seen as partisan
  5. Tighten voting rules and ID requirements even if that reduces overall midterm turnout

County election priorities and representation

Orange County is holding 2026 primaries and generals for Board of Supervisors, county constitutional offices, education boards, and multiple water and community college districts. Party organizations frame the cycle around working families, congressional control, and year-round organizing, making local governance direction and which offices matter a live civic issue.

Where do you stand?

What should be the top priority for Orange County voters in the 2026 county elections?

How important is this to you?

Sources

Ballotpedia — https://ballotpedia.org/Municipal_elections_in_Orange_County,_California_(2026)
Orange County, California, held primary elections for superior court judges, board of supervisors, county board of education, county superintendent of schools, county assessor, county auditor-controller, county clerk-recorder, and county treasurer-tax collector on June 2, 2026.
Democratic Party of Orange County — https://orangecountydemocrats.com
In 2026, we’re standing up to Donald Trump and fighting on behalf of working families to take back the House of Representatives and elect Democrats up-and-down the ballot in Orange County.
Positions on this issue  ·  liberal → conservative
  1. Elect leaders focused on expanding social services, worker power, and resistance to Trump-era federal policies
  2. Prioritize pragmatic problem-solvers on housing, healthcare access, and inclusive economic growth
  3. Choose experienced administrators who keep core county services stable and nonpartisan
  4. Emphasize fiscal restraint, public safety, and limits on progressive county programs
  5. Back candidates who align with Trump-era priorities, lower taxes, and stricter law-and-order policies