California Primary Elections: Extended Vote Counting

3 weeks ago 0

California voters continue to anticipate results in primary elections, with significant attention on the gubernatorial and Los Angeles mayoral races. Ballots are still being processed over 36 hours after polls closed.

California’s Election Process

In the state’s top-two primary system, the leading two candidates proceed to the November general election, regardless of political affiliation. Currently, no candidates have been declared as advancing in the governor’s race to succeed Governor Gavin Newsom, who is limited by term limits. Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Xavier Becerra are leading, but Democratic environmentalist Tom Steyer is also in contention as vote counting continues.

Gubernatorial Race

Steve Hilton, a former Fox News host, is positioning himself as a candidate promising change. “We’re not there yet, but it’s looking good,” Hilton remarked, expressing optimism about his potential November challenge. Xavier Becerra also feels confident about advancing and expressed this sentiment on Tuesday night.

Several prominent Democrats have conceded, including former Rep. Katie Porter, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan, and former LA Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco, another Republican contender, had not conceded by Thursday morning.

Los Angeles Mayoral Race

In Los Angeles, Mayor Karen Bass is projected to face a runoff election in November. Her opponent is yet undetermined. The race in the Democratic stronghold has proven challenging for the incumbent, with contenders like Spencer Pratt, a former reality TV star, and city council member Nithya Raman.

Polls indicated a virtual tie among the candidates. Bass, however, showed strong early support, leading to her projection by CBS News. Spencer Pratt criticized local leadership on issues like homelessness and a recent fire but lost momentum in later ballot counts.

Vote Counting Timeline

The California Secretary of State states that counties have up to 30 days to count ballots. Mail-in votes must be postmarked by Election Day and counted if received within seven days.

Here is when some major counties expect updated results: