California voters were eagerly awaiting results in primary elections on Thursday. Key races included the gubernatorial and Los Angeles mayoral contests. Ballots were still being counted more than 36 hours after polls closed Tuesday night.
Under the state’s top-two primary system, the two candidates with the most votes advance to the November general election, regardless of party.
“We’re not there yet, but it’s looking good,” said Steve Hilton, a Republican candidate for governor, on Tuesday night.
As of Thursday morning, CBS News had not projected any candidates to advance in the governor’s race. Current Governor Gavin Newsom is term-limited. Republican Steve Hilton and Democrat Xavier Becerra appeared strong, while Tom Steyer aimed for a late surge.
Steve Hilton positioned himself as the “change” candidate. Meanwhile, Xavier Becerra expressed confidence in advancing to November. Several high-profile Democrats had conceded by Tuesday night, but major Republican candidate Chad Bianco had not.
Uncertainty in Los Angeles
In Los Angeles, CBS News projected Mayor Karen Bass advancing to a runoff election in November as she seeks reelection. Her opponent has not been determined. This challenge represents a rare contest against an incumbent in the heavily Democratic city.
The candidates, including Spencer Pratt and Nithya Raman, were in a close race. “I haven’t seen a race this close in decades,” said campaign strategist Luis Alvarado. A strong showing from Bass earned her the CBS News projection.
Spencer Pratt criticized city leadership on issues like handling a destructive fire and the homelessness crisis. However, his early strength waned with Los Angeles County ballot updates.
When Will All California Primary Votes Be Counted?
Counties have 30 days to count ballots on a provisional basis, according to the California Secretary of State. Mail-in ballots postmarked by election day are counted if received within seven days.
- Los Angeles County: Thursday between 4-5 p.m.
- Orange County: Thursday by 5 p.m.
- San Diego County: Thursday by 6 p.m.
- Riverside County: Thursday by 6 p.m.
- San Bernardino County: Thursday by 4 p.m.
- Santa Clara County: Thursday by 5 p.m.
- San Mateo County: Thursday by 4:30 p.m.
- San Francisco City and County: Thursday by 4 p.m.
- Marin County: Thursday by 5 p.m.
- Sacramento County: Friday by 4:15 p.m.