More than a week after Californians cast their ballots, the field is finally set in several of the state’s most closely watched races, ending days of uncertainty over who will advance to November’s general election.In California’s crowded governor’s race, Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton emerged as the top two finishers. In Los Angeles’s mayoral race, Mayor Karen Bass and Councilwoman Nithya Raman secured spots in the general election, leaving Spencer Pratt, a strong contender, out of the final field. Voters also had to wait days to learn the outcomes of some of the nation’s most consequential House battleground races after casting ballots in five newly redrawn congressional districts that Democrats view as central to their effort to reclaim the lower chamber.The lengthy count has once again put California’s election system in the spotlight. The state’s expansive vote-by-mail program, acceptance of ballots postmarked by election day, and legal practice of “ballot harvesting,” allowing third parties to return completed ballots, can delay final results, particularly in close races. Critics argue the process takes too long and fuels public skepticism, while supporters say the additional time helps ensure every valid vote is counted.