California's vote counting process is notoriously slow, leading to frustration and misinformation. - Over 16 million Californians voted in November 2024, with 80% using mail-in ballots.
- Mail-in ballots require signature verification and can be accepted up to seven days after election day. - The California Voter Foundation recommends increased funding, earlier ballot returns, and technology like "sign, scan & go" to speed up the count.
- A Placer County pilot program cut processing time by three to four days using in-person scanning. While some argue a slow count ensures accuracy, advocates say faster processing is possible without compromising integrity.