American voters are heading to the polls on November 5, 2024, to elect their next president in what has been a close race between Democrat Kamala Harris, the current vice president, and Republican Donald Trump, the former president. The election results could take longer than usual to be announced due to the competitiveness of the race, possible recounts, legal challenges, and state-specific vote-counting procedures.
Expected Timing for Results
In prior elections, results have varied from being announced on election night to several days later. For example, in 2020, networks did not declare Joe Biden the winner until four days after the election. This year, results might take longer, especially in key battleground states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Arizona, where vote counting could extend beyond election night.
Some states are expected to report partial results shortly after polls close, but the final outcome in states with mail-in ballots and recount thresholds may take a day or more.
Key States to Watch
Swing states that are likely to decide the outcome include:
Georgia: Polls close at 7:00 pm EST, with around 75% of votes expected within the first two hours.
Pennsylvania: Polls close at 8:00 pm EST, but counting begins on election day itself, likely leading to a 24-hour delay.
Michigan: Polls close at 9:00 pm EST, with final results anticipated by Wednesday night.
Arizona: Initial results could arrive by early Wednesday morning, but mail-in ballots may take up to 13 days to process.
Nevada: Mail-in ballots are accepted until November 9, meaning results might also take longer.
Potential Delays and Challenges
There are additional factors that might delay the results:
Recounts: If vote margins are narrow, automatic or requested recounts may prolong the process, especially in swing states like Pennsylvania.
Legal Disputes: Pre-election lawsuits on voter eligibility and procedures have been filed, and more may arise if results are contested.
Security Issues: Concerns about election-related disruptions at polling locations could also cause delays.
Certification and Inauguration
Once all votes are counted and disputes resolved, the electoral college process will confirm the winner. The official inauguration for the president-elect is set for January 20, 2025, marking the 60th presidential inauguration in U.S. history. This event will take place at the U.S. Capitol, where the new president will take the oath of office.
