A message about Measure A Vote in the Special Election by Nov. 4

If it seems like our last election alert was just a few months ago, that’s because it was. On the heels of the race to fill a vacant seat on the San José City Council, a special statewide election is underway. Ballots are landing in mailboxes, and voters have until November 4 to return them.

Here in Santa Clara County, we have three items on the docket, including Proposition 50, which would adjust congressional districts as a counterpoint to Texas and other states attempting to swing the balance of power in the 2026 midterm elections. We’ll also decide who will replace our recently resigned County Assessor.

SJAA doesn’t make a habit of issuing endorsements, and we’re not going to start now. But we want to draw your attention to Measure A, a temporary response to $1 billion in federal funding reductions to the local healthcare system as part of the budget bill passed by Congress and the current president (aka “The Big Beautiful Bill”). Cuts of this size mean longer wait times, fewer first responders, and possible closures of public hospitals, which would have severe impacts for all of us, even those with private insurance.

Measure A is a five-year ⅝-cent sales tax that would generate $330 million annually to protect our local healthcare ecosystem. It ensures every dollar stays in Santa Clara County, with strict independent audits and oversight. And it would not apply to vital expenses like rent, child care, health care, and groceries. This short-term solution is part of the County’s three-pronged plan to fill the funding gap, alongside state support, and cost-saving measures like hiring and pay freezes.

While nobody likes the idea of more taxes, SJAA understands that many artists, cultural practitioners, and staff at small arts nonprofits rely on public healthcare. That’s why we’re encouraging you to learn more and consider getting involved in the effort to pass Measure A.

Visit saveourlocalhospitals.com to read an FAQ, volunteer to help, and post about it on social media. You can also review this slide deck presented to the SJAA Core Team at our October monthly meeting. 

And regardless of how you vote, don’t forget to complete and return your ballot by Nov. 4! 

Not registered to vote? What are you waiting for? If you sign up by Oct. 20, you can still get a ballot mailed to you.

Miss the deadline? You can register in person at the Registrar of Voters office or any vote center and cast a provisional ballot.

Not sure if you’re registered? You can check here.

As always, don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions, comments, or concerns. We’re here to help, and we’d love to chat with you!