Melissa Michelson, dean of arts and sciences and professor of political science at Menlo College, has offered her assessment of the California election with voters just one week away from polling day on November 3.
Michelson spoke to KTVU on October 27 as candidates entered the final stretch of campaigning ahead of the 2026 general election.
The statewide contest will include races for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, other senior state offices, all 52 congressional districts and seats in the California legislature. ([gov.ca.gov](https://www.gov.ca.gov/2026/06/08/governor-newsom-issues-proclamation-declaring-californias-2026-general-election/?utm_source=openai))
California election enters final week
California voters have already been able to cast ballots in person in counties operating under the state’s Voter’s Choice Act, while ballot drop-off points and vote-by-mail options are available across the state.
The Secretary of State’s office said the deadline to register online or by post was October 19, but eligible residents who missed it can still use same-day registration and cast a provisional ballot through Election Day. ([sos.ca.gov](https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/upcoming-elections/general-election-november-3-2026?utm_source=openai))
Polls will be open from 7am to 8pm on November 3, with election officials beginning to report results once voting closes. ([sos.ca.gov](https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections/upcoming-elections/general-election-november-3-2026?utm_source=openai))
Michelson’s interview comes as voters make their final decisions in a campaign that will determine California’s next governor and shape the state’s congressional and legislative representation.
