Americans are gearing up for an important presidential election set for Tuesday, November 5. As the day approaches, many are wondering when a winner will be declared. Here’s what you need to know about this pivotal event.
The election features Democrat Kamala Harris, the current vice president, and Republican Donald Trump, the former president. Both candidates have been in a neck-and-neck race for weeks, with national and swing state polls showing increasingly narrow margins.
Given these close contests, recounts may be necessary in several states. Additionally, changes in voting procedures since the last election could lead to slower results. Some states, including all seven swing states crucial for victory, have altered how they administer elections since 2020. Conversely, some areas like Michigan have improved their vote counting efficiency.
Across the country, polls will close beginning at 6:00 PM EST on Tuesday and continuing until 1:00 AM EST early Wednesday morning. Here’s a brief overview of significant polling times:
Historically, most voters expect to know who their next president will be by the end of election night or early the following morning.
“The 2020 election took place on November 3, but networks did not declare Joe Biden the winner until November 7.”
Once all votes are counted and any necessary recounts completed, results are certified at both local and state levels. This process is crucial as it leads to the selection of electors who will represent their state in the electoral college. These electors meet on December 17 to cast their votes.
The new president will be inaugurated on January 20, 2025, marking the 60th presidential inauguration in U.S. history.
Election-related challenges may arise during this process, especially given recent electoral reforms aimed at preventing objections to certified results. However, some candidates have yet to clarify if they’ll accept the election outcomes if they lose.
With tight margins anticipated this election cycle, media outlets may delay projections due to potential recounts or legal challenges. Overall, this election promises to be closely watched as Americans await the results with great anticipation.
On November 5, voters in the United States will head to the polls to choose their next president. Originally anticipated as a rematch of the 2020 election, the political landscape shifted dramatically in July when President Joe Biden withdrew from the race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.
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