California election results take weeks to certify, attorney says
Polls across California closed at 8 p.m. on November 3, 2026. However, final results will require additional time because most voters cast mail ballots. These ballots remain valid if postmarked on or before Election Day and arrive within seven days afterward. State law requires counties to complete certification of results by December 3. In the interim, reported leads may narrow or reverse as more ballots are tallied, leaving some races undecided for an extended period.
The stretch between election night and certified results frequently creates confusion among the public. Changing leads in races can fuel questions about the process. Litigation often emerges during this time as parties seek to address perceived issues or delays in finalizing outcomes.
Stephen J. Kaufman founded and leads the Kaufman Legal Group, a political law firm with offices in Los Angeles and Sacramento that is celebrating its 30th anniversary. He previously chaired the California Voting Modernization Board, overseeing statewide upgrades to voting systems. Kaufman also served on the Los Angeles Municipal Elections Reform Commission. He worked as a recount attorney in Florida after the 2000 presidential election and was appointed in 2001 as Chief Counsel to the U.S. House of Representatives Democratic Caucus Special Committee on Election Reform. His firm has handled recounts and election litigation in state and federal courts.
The 2026 California election holds added importance as the first general election using congressional maps approved by voters via Proposition 50 in November 2025 and permitted by federal judges. Voters selected a new governor, decided on various statewide ballot measures, and determined outcomes in several closely watched congressional races that could require days or weeks to resolve.
Kaufman stated, “Election night gives us a first look, not a final answer. California’s process is designed to ensure that every valid ballot is counted, and that takes time. It is important that people understand what is happening at each stage, and what the law allows when someone questions the results.”
Kaufman can provide analysis on multiple aspects of the post-election period. He can explain why California counts ballots over several weeks and why shifting leads after election night represent normal occurrences rather than cause for suspicion. Discussion can cover the meaning of results in key races, ballot measures, and the initial use of the Proposition 50 maps. Additional topics include the procedures for close races and recounts, including who may request them, associated costs, and typical impacts on outcomes. He addresses how voters correct issues with signature cures and provisional ballots and how those are processed. Certification processes at the county and state levels, along with attempts to delay them, fall within his expertise. Limits on federal involvement in state elections after ballots are cast, post-election challenges in courts, distinguishing fraud claims from evidence, campaign finance disclosures and debts, and implications for the 2028 cycle are also areas he can address.
Kaufman remains available for media interviews, including live, taped, and background sessions, either in person in Los Angeles or remotely, until the election results receive certification.
