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Some East Bay Voters Confused By Voting System

OAKLAND (KCBS) - Many voters in Oakland, Berkeley and San Leandro spent more time than usual at the polls on Tuesday, thanks in part to the new ranked-choice voting system.

For the first time, voters are designating their first, second and third choice candidates, a system that eliminates the need for a June primary election.

"It was pretty easy. If you know what you're voting for, you just go and get your ballot, read through it and vote," said one voter.

But others said it took some time to figure out the new system.

"It's confusing on the ballot. You don't want to not vote for who you want to vote for,"  said another voter. "It should be yes or no. I'm going for this particular person or not."

The race many in the East Bay are watching is Oakland's mayoral race. Dave McDonald with the Alameda County Registrar of Voters said he's not sure if the new process will help to get results more quickly.

"We will have an answer when the election is certified and that just takes however long it takes," he said. "If there is a candidate who is a runaway winner, then we'll know sooner."

In the race for Oakland Mayor, ten candidates are vying to replace outgoing Mayor Ron Dellums.

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