During an essential media briefing on Nov. 14, Secretary of State Shirley N. Weber, Ph.D., emphasized that California’s electoral integrity depends on a system built for both transparency and precision. California, with over 22 million registered voters, has a tremendous responsibility to count and verify every valid ballot accurately.
Weber left no room for ambiguity: Election Night results are only a snapshot, not the final say. The semi-official tallies reported that night capture in-person votes, and early ballots received before Election Day. But the real work begins in the days that follow.
During the 30-day canvassing period, vote-by-mail ballots received within seven days and all provisional ballots are carefully counted, ensuring that no voter’s voice goes unheard.
The canvassing period is crucial, with every ballot processed and a 1% manual audit verifying the accuracy of automated counts. This detailed verification process upholds California’s standard for election security.
By Dec. 5, county election officials must finalize results. The Secretary of State will then certify the statewide results on Dec. 13, completing the election process.
Although media outlets may project winners or candidates may concede based on early, semi-official results, the election outcomes are not final until the Secretary of State certifies the statewide results after all county canvasses are completed.
Secretary Weber also sounded the alarm on the dangers of misinformation and disinformation, which continue to threaten voter confidence. She called on the media and the public to rely solely on official sources, urging journalists to actively combat false narratives and uphold the sanctity of truth.
The message was clear and uncompromising: California’s election system is not just a process, but a promise built on accuracy and transparency. As the state moves toward final certification, the focus remains steadfast on ensuring that every vote counts, and every voice matters.
For more information, visit https://www.sos.ca.gov/elections.
