Early voting starts in San Diego County: What you need to know

San Diego County voters are preparing to cast their ballots as early voting begins Monday for the gubernatorial primary election, with multiple options available to participate before Election Day.

Starting the week of May 4, registered voters are set to receive their mail-in ballots. Those ready to vote early can head to the Registrar of Voters office in Kearny Mesa beginning Monday, May 4, to cast ballots in person and avoid Election Day crowds.

Beginning Tuesday, voters can also return completed ballots at the Registrar’s office or at official ballot drop boxes located throughout the county.

Some San Diegans say they prefer voting early to make the process easier.

“I like to go in person. I believe it’s a little more personal. Plus, I don’t know. I’m a people person. I love around people and all this stuff. Yeah,” said Miss Leah.

Others say early voting helps them avoid long lines.

“Yeah. I told to avoid the crows on the election day. Yeah,” said Ramon Gaxiola.

Election volunteers say new technology is helping streamline the voting process this cycle.

“Now we do the scanning as a ballot, the provisional one,” said Claudia Alvarez.

Alvarez said volunteering has reinforced the importance of civic participation.

“Just to vote. So we can have a better governor,” Alvarez said.

Voters across the county say having the ability to participate in elections is meaningful.

“It’s wonderful. It feels really good that you you have a voice. You have the right. You have freedom to to put your opinion in. And it’s wonderful. I believe it’s it’s really good. It’s one of the rights and I believe it’s a privilege,” said Miss Leah.

Select vote centers will open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. starting May 23, with all vote centers open by May 30.

Election Day is Tuesday, June 2. All vote centers, drop boxes and the Registrar of Voters office will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mailed ballots must be postmarked by that date.

This story was originally reported for broadcast by NBC San Diego. AI tools helped convert the story to a digital article, and an NBC San Diego journalist edited the article for publication.