California's primary election results, including the gubernatorial race and other key contests, may not be available for days or potentially weeks after polls close Tuesday at 8 p.m. local time.

The delays are attributed to California's election system, which relies heavily on mail-in ballots and requires a thorough verification process for each ballot. The state's 58 county election offices are expected to receive a large volume of last-minute absentee ballots, consistent with patterns seen in recent election cycles.

Election experts point to the state's ballot-by-ballot verification process as the primary factor in the extended timeline. This meticulous review system, while designed to ensure accuracy, significantly extends the time needed to tabulate final results compared to states with different voting procedures.

The potential delays affect several high-profile races, including the gubernatorial contest and the Los Angeles mayoral race. Voters cast ballots Tuesday across the state for these and other local and state positions.

California's counting procedures have consistently resulted in extended waiting periods for final results in previous elections, particularly in close races where every ballot can impact the outcome. The state prioritizes accuracy over speed in its vote counting methodology.