politics
Why does it take so long to count votes in California? Here's why the process may feel even slower this election
Updated on: June 4, 2026 / 4:38 PM PDT / CBS LA
TL;DR
- California's election process involves counting millions of mail-in ballots, which takes days or weeks to complete.
- The state prioritizes ensuring every voter's voice is heard and votes are counted securely.
- Factors contributing to the delay include the high volume of mail-in ballots, the postmark deadline, signature matching, and ballot curing.
- Recent competitive races, like the gubernatorial and LA mayoral elections, make the wait for results feel longer as mail-in ballots are crucial.
- A potential partisan split in voting methods may lead to a late boost for left-leaning candidates as more ballots are counted.