Election Day coverage: Reporting all day from Oakland polls
on November 3, 2026
Cloudy skies greeted early morning voters in Oakland, where the forecast on Election Day called for rain throughout the day.
Oakland voters will be casting ballots for mayor, city council and school board, as well as considering a charter change that would bring a new form of government.
Incumbent Mayor Barbara Lee is running for reelection against three challengers: Brenda Grisham, Mindy Pechenuk and Julius Robinson.
Council President Kevin Jenkins is trying to hold onto his District 6 seat, against opponent Nancy Sidebotham. District 2 City Council incumbent Charlene Wang is hoping to fend off a challenge by Nate Adams.
Oakland Unified School District board President Jennifer Brouhard is seeking another four years, with Arielle Fleisher challenging in District 2. Mike Hutchinson, a six-year incumbent, is running against Kathryn Camp in District 4. And incumbent Valerie Bachelor has two District 6 challengers — LeAna Powell and Alexandra Williams.
Oakland City Council is asking voters to change the city charter to give the mayor veto power and the City Council power to override a mayor’s veto. The change would bring a strong mayor form of government to Oakland, with the mayor appointing and having direct authority over department heads.
Voters also will decide if the city should amend its property transfer tax by removing the exception on foreclosed properties, which would generate $4 million to $13 million annually.
Oakland North will be at the polls, talking to voters about issues important to Oakland residents. This report will be updated throughout Election Day.
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