About the vote count
As you watch these results, keep in mind:
- There more more than 22.6 million registered voters in California.
- In 2020, the last presidential election, more than 16.1 million Californians cast a ballot.
Get full results:
Keep in mind that in tight races the winner may not be determined for days or weeks after Election Day. This is normal. Here's why.
In California, ballots postmarked on or before Nov. 5 are counted toward the results as long as they arrive within seven days of the election. The California Secretary of State's Office is scheduled to certify the final vote on Dec. 13.
What was at stake in this race
Along with the House, the Senate has to find solutions or relief measures for the big problems facing the country right now: inflation, high gas prices, the continued threat of climate change, fallout from Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Congress also has to figure out how to solve long-standing issues that have faced legislative impasses, like immigration reform, student debt relief, and paid family leave. And they’ll have to work with whoever winds up winning the presidency.
Why this race mattered
Here's the backstory: In September 2023, U.S. Sen. Dianne Feinstein died, and Gov. Gavin Newsom appointed Laphonza Butler to replace her temporarily. Then, Butler shocked the political world by not trying to keep the job. Newsom then called a special election, concurrent with the regular election, to fill the remainder of Feinstein’s term, which ends in January. As a result, there are two separate elections: One to pick who will serve out the term ending in January 2025, and a second to decide who will fill the seat for six years.
Tracking the balance of power
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Scott Schmerelson was unanimously elected Tuesday to lead the LAUSD board after defeating a well-funded challenger in November’s election. -
Nguyen was able to take office weeks early to fill the vacancy caused Do’s resignation. -
Nathan Hochman succeeds George Gascón, known as the godfather of progressive prosecutors.
Go deeper on the issues
- US Senate debate: What you need to know (CalMatters)
- U.S. Senate candidates disagree on key issues (CalMatters)
- Where are the top U.S. Senate candidates raising their cash? (CalMatters)
- Where the candidates stand on immigration, the economy and crime (CalMatters)
