California Election Reforms Slow Counting

United States — California's efforts to boost voter turnout through various election reforms over the past decade have resulted in a tediously slow ballot counting process without significant improvements in participation. The June 2 primary saw a 40.8% turnout, which, while an increase from the previous two primaries, was still below historical levels and showed persistent gaps in participation among younger voters and voters of color. Changes like mail-in ballots, late ballot acceptance, and same-day registration have lengthened the counting period, leading to criticism from President Donald Trump and an investigation by the United States — United States Department of Justice into United States — Los Angeles County, California's elections. Governor Gavin Newsom's office has also expressed dissatisfaction and allocated $29 million to accelerate the process. Studies by the Center for Inclusive Democracy and the Public Policy Institute of California indicate that major legislation like the 2016 Voter's Choice Act has not achieved its intended impact of a larger and more representative electorate. Experts suggest that motivating infrequent voters and addressing public trust are more crucial than election models alone.