Calif. Democrats mull last-minute voting strategy in governor race

Democrats in California are weighing a last-minute voting strategy in the governor’s race to avoid a potential lockout in November, as no clear frontrunner has emerged in the open primary. Supporters fear the wrong outcome could tilt the contest toward Republicans, prompting activists to urge waiting to vote until the last moment, watching polls and then backing the candidate with the most support. Election officials warn late mail-in ballots slow counting and can strain administration; experts note the race is fluid with Xavier Becerra in the lead among Democrats, followed by Tom Steyer, Katie Porter and Matt Mahan. Some voters, like Evans-Reber, plan to cast ballots on Election Day, while officials stress the importance of early voting to speed results and maintain accuracy.