Early voting in California is well underway and election results in the state could be delayed due to the high volume of mail-in ballots. In addition to the close presidential race between Barack Obama and Mitt Romney, voters have eleven state propositions to tackle that have generated more than $350 million in campaign spending.

There are also many hotly contested local, legislative and congressional races throughout the state that are putting newly drawn districts and the top-two primary system into effect for the first time.

This week a preview of next Tuesday's election with some of the latest polls, a look at the role of the women's vote and ethnic voters, and the latest on the presidential race and the impact of Superstorm Sandy.

• 2012 California Proposition Guide -- Get up to speed on California's ballot measures