The election date is November 5 and a lot of people across different parts of the U.S are already anticipating the election result. However, based on previous elections the timeline for announcing the election can vary based on different factors.
When will the election results be available?
The best way to answer this question is – it depends. Every state is governed by its own laws in respect to when the ballots are supposed to be counted and when the results are declared. Sometimes, the counting might start on the evening of the elections while complete clarity on the results may take days or even weeks. Here are some factors you should consider:
Early voting and mail-in voting: Most states permit early in-person voting and voting by mail, which can further delay the process of counting the votes.
State policies: In some states, ballot counting for the mail-in voting can not be commenced before Election Day, which may cause inefficiencies.
Contested states: Traditionally, contested states take more time in reporting the results especially within the states high in mail in votes.
Why could there be delays in reporting results?
Most of you might have a recollection of the disorder of the election in 2020. Biden was announced the president-elect after about four days. This was because of the outbreak of COVID-19 and the higher number of people who utilized the absentee and the mail-in ballots. Here are a few reasons there may be delays in 2024:
Voting dynamics: When there is an increase in the number of voters, especially during an election, there are likely to be delays in the counting of the votes.
Legal challenges: Efforts to engage in legal tactics are being anticipated from both parties, which will also make the final count take more time.
Weather and logistics: In addition, natural disasters such as hurricanes restrain voting and counting activities as well.
How does the counting process work?
Understanding how the counting process is done can help you grasp why it might take time to know the election results. Here is a breakdown of what usually happens:
- Ballot collection: After the polls close, ballots are collected from various polling locations.
- Verification: Election officials will then verify the authenticity of each ballot, ensuring that all the votes count.
- Counting: Depending on state laws, counting of votes may begin on the Election Day or in advance for early ballots.
- Reporting: Results are reported gradually, meaning that you may see the initial tallies before the final counts are confirmed.
Historical context: how long did previous elections take?
Looking back at previous elections can give you a clue on what to expect for the 2024 presidential election:
- 2020 election: It took four days for the election results to be officially announced. This was because there were a lot of mail-in ballots.
- 2016 election: Donald Trump was declared the winner during the early hours of November 9. This was done shortly after polls were closed.
- 2000 election: This election was very unique and is infamous for taking 35 days to resolve the election votes due to the Florida recount which was ultimately determined by just 537 votes.
What should voters do while waiting for results?
While you are still waiting for the results of the election, it is important to stay updated on the latest information related to the election. Here are some things you can do:
- Follow reliable news sources: Make sure you are getting updates from trustworthy outlets.
- Be prepared for uncertainty: Understand that legal challenges could delay the final outcome.
- Stay engaged: Participate in discussions, but avoid spreading misinformation about the counting process.
