President Trump fired off a late‑night tweet accusing Los Angeles election officials of fraud, claiming the state’s slow count could skew the November congressional outcome. The claim echoes his long‑standing narrative that American elections are riddled with deceit.

California’s mail‑ballot system routinely delays results, but no evidence of fraud has surfaced. The state’s meticulous process could keep Congress undecided for weeks, a scenario Trump’s rhetoric may inflame.

The president’s post coincided with a runoff for Los Angeles mayor, where only 62 percent of votes were tallied. A Trump‑backed contender faces a challenger who could win if the delayed ballots tilt the margin.

California officials and Gov. Gavin Newsom dismissed the allegations, labeling them misinformation. The episode underscores how election narratives can sway public trust and potentially impact the partisan balance in Washington.