TRUE

Evidence from multiple reports confirms that California's election results take significantly longer to finalize than those of other states 11 14. While some states provide nearly full results on Election Day, California's process frequently takes days or even weeks 2 13. This delay is attributed to the state's expansive vote-by-mail system, which requires time-consuming signature verification and allows voters to cure ballot deficiencies even after Election Day has passed 3 6 8. Expert analysis indicates that the heavy reliance on mail ballots and meticulous review processes are primary factors in these delays 2 11. News outlets and election officials regularly describe the slow pace as a familiar position for the state 10. The 2026 primary election cycle continues this trend, with results trickling in over an extended period as officials process a deluge of last-minute ballots 9 12 17.