What the California Secretary of State Oversees

From elections to official records, the Secretary of State has a wide range of responsibilities.

Apr. 12, 2026 at 3:25pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A photorealistic painting of a lone ballot box sitting in a dimly lit room, with warm sunlight streaming in through a window and casting deep shadows across the scene, capturing the solemn importance of the electoral process.The California Secretary of State oversees the state's electoral process, from publishing voter guides to certifying election results.Today in Sacramento

The California Secretary of State is the state's chief elections officer, responsible for coordinating elections, testing voting equipment, certifying results, and maintaining records on voter registration and campaign contributions. Outside of elections, the Secretary of State also keeps a complete record of the official acts of the governor and the legislature.

Why it matters

As the top election official in the state, the Secretary of State plays a crucial role in ensuring the integrity and transparency of California's elections. Their responsibilities extend beyond just elections, however, as they also serve as the official record keeper for the state government.

The details

The Secretary of State publishes the voter information guide, collects and reports election returns, tests voting equipment, and certifies election results. They also maintain records on the number of registered voters and campaign contributions. Outside of elections, the Secretary of State keeps track of all official acts by the governor and the state legislature.

  • The Secretary of State has a limit of two four-year terms in office.
  • In 2025, the Secretary of State's salary was $184,447, according to the Department of Human Resources.

The players

California Secretary of State

The chief elections officer for the state of California, responsible for coordinating elections, maintaining voter registration records, and serving as the official record keeper for the state government.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

The California Secretary of State plays a vital role in ensuring the integrity of the state's elections and maintaining transparency in state government. Their responsibilities span from overseeing the electoral process to serving as the official record keeper, making them a key figure in California politics.