Most cities hire their auditors. Oakland and Berkeley elect theirs, which gives the office independence from the mayor and council. Both posts are on the Nov. 3 ballot, and both incumbents are running unopposed. Their names still appear on the ballot, and both cities use ranked-choice voting for the race.
Oakland: Michael C. Houston
Houston was elected in 2024 after serving as assistant city auditor. The Oaklandside notes this is his second time running without an opponent. His office has released audits on illegal dumping, the vacant property tax, resources for police oversight bodies and business tax collection. His statement says the office has also investigated whistleblower complaints of fraud and waste. Houston says he has 18 years of audit and investigation experience.
Berkeley: Jenny Wong
Wong is Berkeley's sitting auditor and says she has 26 years of auditing experience. Her statement lists recent audits of city leases, staff shortages, restaurant and fire inspections, homeless response and contracts awarded without competition. It also says four of her office's audits won national awards from the Association of Local Government Auditors. If re-elected, she plans audits of the public health division, the Rent Board and business license taxes.
Why it matters
An elected auditor reports to voters, not to the officials being audited. Audits can't force a change, but they often shape budget fights and ballot measures.
How to vote
Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. Polls and vote centers close at 8 p.m., and mailed ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and arrive within seven days. You can check your registration and ballot status at sos.ca.gov/elections. California lets you register and vote the same day at a vote center. For more local races and measures, see our 2026 Bay Area election hub.