California is experiencing significant delays in determining the result of four Congressional races, with 1.7 million ballots yet to be counted over a week after Election Day.
The wait for final results has drawn attention to California's slower counting process compared to states like Florida, which reports results more quickly, as the Washington Examiner reports.
California Secretary of State Shirley Weber has acknowledged the state's lengthy process in counting votes. However, she has emphasized the importance of ensuring that everyone who is eligible to cast a vote gets their opportunity to do so. Weber stated, "We take pride in the fact we are not rushed."
Among the uncounted 1.7 million ballots, fewer than 10% arrived after Election Day and are primarily mail-in votes. This has led to minimal immediate changes in the status of several key races. Despite the delays, certain races have seen definitive outcomes.
In the 22nd District, Republican Congressman David Valadao has officially emerged victorious over Democrat Rudy Salas. Similarly, Republican Congressman Ken Calvert has retained his position in a contest against Democrat Will Rollins.
Meanwhile, John Duarte, a Republican congressman in the 13th District, has seen his lead expand to nearly 4,000 votes.
Races that remain undecided include the 9th and 21st Districts, where incumbent Democrats hold narrow majorities. These tight contests highlight the pivotal role that the uncounted ballots will play in determining final outcomes.
One of the closest races is in the 45th District, where Republican Congresswoman Michelle Steel saw her earlier lead of nearly 4,000 votes diminish to just 349 votes with 93% of the votes tallied. The closeness of this race exemplifies the potential impact of each outstanding ballot.
In contrast to California, other states such as Florida provide results much more swiftly, often within hours of polls closing on Election Day.
The pace of counting in California has prompted comparisons with these faster-reporting states. However, state officials defend their methodical approach as ensuring accuracy and inclusivity.
Weber's comments reinforce this position, suggesting that a comprehensive process trumps speed in election result reporting. The extended timeframe is justified by the priority placed on a complete and accurate count.
As Californians await the final outcomes of their elections, the conversation continues around the state's voting and counting procedures.
Ultimately, California is facing delays in four Congressional races due to uncounted ballots. Shirley Weber emphasizes accuracy over speed, despite comparisons to faster states like Florida. Congressman David Valadao and Ken Calvert have secured re-elections, while races like the 45th District remain tightly contested.
