California's primary election results remain undecided for several closely-watched races Wednesday, including the gubernatorial race and the Los Angeles mayoral race.
As of Thursday morning, Republican Steve Hilton is leading the gubernatorial race with roughly 28% of the vote. Behind him are the two top Democratic candidates, former Biden official Xavier Becerra at 25% and billionaire Tom Steyer at 20%.
Under California law, only the two top-performing candidates in state primaries can proceed to the general election in November, regardless of political party.
Los Angeles also remains too close to call for second place. Incumbent Mayor Karen Bass has secured her spot in the November election. Her upstart opponent, Spencer Pratt, was holding in second place early Wednesday morning with 30% of the vote, while left-wing candidate Nithya Raman trailed at 22%.
"This idea that I don't represent Democrats and Republicans and independents — anyone that's just a Los Angeles citizen that wants basic quality of life — I'll be able to show that in five months," Pratt said Wednesday night.
What the Left Is Saying
Democratic voices have pointed to Karen Bass securing her general election spot as evidence of continued progressive strength in Los Angeles. Supporters note that despite challenges, the incumbent mayor has maintained a path to November regardless of second-place finisher.
Progressives have also emphasized California's mail-in voting system as a feature rather than a flaw. Democratic strategists argue that the extended counting period ensures maximum participation and accurate results, particularly in a state with millions of registered voters.
Tom Steyer's campaign has highlighted his strong fundraising and third-place position as evidence of continued Democratic enthusiasm for his platform. Supporters say his status as a self-funded candidate provides resources to compete in a prolonged race.
What the Right Is Saying
Steve Hilton's lead has energized Republican supporters who argue that California's top-two system creates opportunities for non-traditional candidates. The party points to his polling position as evidence of voter dissatisfaction with Democratic leadership.
The RNC has rails against California's late mail-in ballot counting, calling it absurd in a statement reported by Fox News. Republicans have argued the extended timeline undermines election confidence and creates unnecessary uncertainty for voters and campaigns alike.
Rep. Kevin Kiley, an independent who caucuses with the GOP, wrote on X that "California's inability to competently handle the basic administration of democracy is embarrassing." He added that the slow counting process is indicative of broader state governance issues.
What the Numbers Show
Steve Hilton leads California gubernatorial race: 28% (R)
Xavier Becerra trails in second: 25% (D, former Biden official)
Tom Steyer third: 20% (D, billionaire)
Los Angeles mayoral race results as of Wednesday morning: Karen Bass secured first place; Spencer Pratt at 30%; Nithya Raman at 22%
California law allows mail-in ballots arriving up to a week after election day if postmarked by election day.
Every registered California voter receives a mail-in ballot under state law.
The Bottom Line
Vote counting continues in California with several high-profile races still undecided. In the gubernatorial contest, Steve Hilton holds a narrow lead over Xavier Becerra, while Tom Steyer remains within striking distance for second place.
For Los Angeles mayor, Karen Bass has clinched her general election berth, but second place between Spencer Pratt and Nithya Raman remains contested with additional ballots still being tallied.
California's top-two primary system means both candidates advancing to November will be from the same party if they earn the most votes. The extended mail-in ballot counting period is expected to continue for days, with final results potentially not known until next week in tight races.