LOS ANGELES (AP) — A recount in a Northern California U.S. House primary contest concluded nearly two months after the election, breaking a tie for second place but also highlighting the long process of vote counting in California. Most residents in the state vote by mail, leading to extended tallying periods to ensure accuracy and counting every vote.
With concerns about election integrity on the rise, the two-month wait to tally votes in this particular race has raised eyebrows. While no one has questioned the accuracy of the count, the prolonged process has caused skepticism among voters.
Secretary of State Shirley Weber emphasized the importance of accuracy and inclusivity in elections, even if it means a longer wait for results. In the heavily Democratic 16th District, the recount ultimately resulted in state Assembly member Evan Low claiming the second spot on the November ballot.
The extended vote counting process in California is due to tight budgets for county election officials and the rise of mail-in voting. Each mail ballot must be individually reviewed, validated, and processed, leading to longer counts in close races. Suggestions have been made to streamline the recount process by passing a law that would require automatic recounts in close races funded by the government.
Overall, the recount in this specific House race will not impact control of the House, which will be determined by swing districts across the country. California’s unique election process has faced criticism in the past, but efforts are being made to address the challenges posed by mail-in voting and ensure the integrity of the election system.
