The Verbal Word: Phone Calls: 2026 Candidate and Incumbent 2A Grades

Each election cycle, Gun Owners of California compiles a scorecard for our members that indicates a candidate’s perspectives on the Second Amendment. Incumbent grades (A-F) are calculated on their recorded legislative votes, and non-incumbents (unelected candidates running for office) are determined based upon answers to our 2026 Election Questionnaire. Every effort has been made to communicate with each candidate; those who did not respond, received a DNR for “did not respond.”


It has been our consistent goal to work toward common sense solutions without sacrificing our Constitutional rights and the ability of the law abiding to protect their home and families. To that end, we believe in the value of an informed electorate and thus, are actively engaged in the political process.

(*) Denotes an incumbent

Legislative offices are literally flooded with phone calls on legislation so we have a few tips to make certain your position is recorded and that you speak to someone in a position of authority.

  • If you just want to register your position on a bill, be very brief:  “My name is Bob Brown.  I am from (place of residence) and am calling to ask (legislator’s name) to oppose/support AB/SB XXX.” Don’t say you are a constituent if you do not live in the member’s district.  If you are a resident of his/her district, then certainly mention this.
  • ALWAYS be polite to whomever answers the phone – remember, they have the ability to pass your message along or toss it in the round file.
  • If you want to have a conversation with a staff member and want to know more information such as a legislator’s position on a bill or the status, ask who handles 2nd Amendment issues. This can be a good opportunity to share a personal story or example of why a bill is good public policy or bad.  Do not berate or threaten if you don’t like their position.
  • DON’T EVER mention anything having to do with financial contributions to a legislator (or staff) during the course of a conversation about a bill.  This is a felony.  It is legal, however, to mention (in a non-threatening manner) your support or opposition to them in the next election – just no money-talk.
  • Thank them for their courtesy, and again, always be professional.  Please take the time to express your appreciation for past votes if they are a supporter of the 2nd Amendment.

**Members can be reached in either their District or Capitol Offices.  District Offices generally handle local issues and Capitol Offices are more legislatively focused.