American voters head to the polls on Tuesday to elect their next president. While U.S. election results are sometimes declared within hours after polls close, this year’s tight race could extend the wait.
When are 2024 election results expected?
Polls begin closing at 6 p.m. EST Tuesday, with the final polls ending at 1 a.m. EST Wednesday. Some elections have been called late on election night or early the next morning, but the close race between Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump could mean a longer delay before a winner is projected.
Possible factors affecting timing
Close results may require recounts, such as in Pennsylvania, where a recount is triggered if the winner and loser are within half a percentage point. Legal challenges may also delay results; over 100 lawsuits have already been filed by Republicans regarding voter eligibility and roll management.
On the positive side, certain areas like Michigan have sped up their vote-counting processes, and fewer mail-in ballots are expected compared to 2020, when COVID-19 led to a surge in mail voting.
When were previous presidential results declared?
In 2020, Joe Biden’s victory was declared four days after Election Day, while in 2016, Trump was named the winner around 3 a.m. EST. Earlier elections were often resolved quickly, but in 2000, the outcome was delayed for five weeks due to a recount in Florida, ultimately decided by the Supreme Court.
How are votes counted?
Vote-counting typically starts with Election Day ballots, followed by early and mail ballots, and later overseas and military ballots. Local officials verify, process, and count ballots through canvassing, ensuring accuracy before electronic or manual counting.
What if the results are contested?
If results are contested, the electoral college process plays a key role. Most states award all electoral votes to the popular vote winner, confirmed after a December 17 meeting. Congress then certifies these votes on January 6. After the 2020 election, reforms were made to prevent the vice president from unilaterally rejecting electoral votes, although local or state challenges may still arise.
What happens in the event of an electoral tie?
If both candidates receive 269 electoral votes, the House of Representatives would select the president, and the Senate would choose the vice president. Such a situation has not occurred in over 200 years.
Inauguration of the president-elect
The new president will be inaugurated on January 20, 2025, at the U.S. Capitol, marking the start of the 60th presidential term. The president-elect will take the oath to uphold the Constitution and deliver an inaugural address.
