Key facts
- California primary election results may take days or weeks to be released.
- The delay is due to the state's reliance on mail voting and a thorough review process.
- Votes arriving up to a week after election day are considered valid if postmarked by election day.
- Criticism of the slow count comes from across the political spectrum.
- Some defend the system, arguing the slow pace maximizes turnout and voter access.
California's primary election results are expected to take days, or even weeks, to be released, a situation drawing criticism from various political figures and analysts. The delay is attributed to the state's extensive use of mail-in ballots, with votes postmarked by election day and arriving up to a week later (by June 9) being considered valid. This process, while aimed at maximizing voter turnout and access, has led to concerns about the timely administration of democracy. Critics, including data analyst Nate Silver and Rep. Kevin Kiley, have labeled the extended counting period as "insane" and "embarrassing." Some, like Democratic strategist Addisu Demissie, defend the system, arguing that the thorough review process is a necessary trade-off for voter access, especially given the size of counties like Los Angeles. The slow counting process could have broader implications, particularly if the U.S. were to move towards a national popular vote system, potentially leaving presidential election results unclear for extended periods.