Why We Might Not Know the Winner on Election Night
- Voters will head to the polls on November 5 to elect the next President, but results may be delayed.
- The counting of mail-in ballots is complex and varies by state, with some states starting processing only on Election Day.
- If the race is close, the uncertainty over the winner could lead to post-election litigation and prolonged results.
On November 5, voters will cast their ballots to elect the next President of the United States, but a clear winner may not be known that night. Experts predict that if the race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump is close, delays in counting mail-in ballots could prevent timely results. The counting process for these ballots is complex, often requiring verification steps that can only begin on Election Day in certain states. The verification process includes unsealing ballots and matching signatures or photo IDs, which can prolong the counting. Historical precedents, such as Joe Biden's victory announcement on November 7, 2020, highlight the potential for extended delays. States like Arizona have experienced similar situations, where last-minute mail-in ballots led to prolonged vote counts. Different states have varying rules regarding mail-in ballot processing. While some states, like Florida and Georgia, allow for pre-Election Day processing, others, including Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, do not start until Election Day. This discrepancy can significantly impact the speed of results in a close race. The increase in mail-in voting during the pandemic has also shifted voting patterns, with Democrats utilizing mail-in ballots more than Republicans. This trend may lead to a situation where results favor one party as counting progresses. Any delays could result in post-election litigation, creating further uncertainty about the election outcome and certification.