Democrats may cast last-minute ballots for governor. What it will mean for the count

Many Californians remain undecided in the Democratic gubernatorial primary and are waiting to cast ballots, which could slow vote counting or delay knowing winners. Analysts say the field could change quickly if Democrats coalesce around a single candidate, but many voters are holding off for new developments. A larger-than-usual number of mail ballots returned near election day could extend the ballot-counting process. County election officials say they are prepared for a significant number of ballots arriving close to or on June 2. Voters may take extra time to review ballots in primaries with many contests and candidates. Voters can vote in person or use mail-ballot return options that do not rely on the U.S. Postal Service to reduce late-arrival risk.

"“This has been a roller coaster of a race, and I think voters are waiting to see when the ride is going to end and cast a vote at that time,” said Steve Maviglio, a Democratic strategist."

"“A larger-than-usual number of people casting mail ballots on or close to election day could extend the ballot-counting process,” said Kim Alexander, president of the nonpartisan California Voter Foundation. County election officials said they were prepared for that possibility. Early returns so far haven't made it clear whether most voters will wait longer than usual to cast ballots."

"Mike Sanchez, a spokesperson for the Los Angeles County registrar, said the county was “fully prepared” for the possibility of receiving “a significant number” of ballots returned close to or on election day, June 2. “It is not uncommon in primary elections, particularly those with a large number of contests and candidates, for some voters to take additional time to review their ballots and hold onto them longer before returning them,” he said."

"Californians who want to vote on or close to election day can vote in person or use a mail-ballot return option that doesn't rely on the U.S. Postal Service to help speed the process and avoid the risk of a mail ballot arriving late, election officials said."

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