Sharing the Facts about Election Results Timing
Issue Areas
Each state has different rules for when they can start processing mail and absentee ballots, so in some jurisdictions, it may take several days—or even weeks—to get final results in the presidential election and other close races. States United recently conducted research into how voters are thinking about this topic.
Surveys we conducted in Michigan, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin show that very few people expect results early on election night. But a large majority doesn’t think it’s going to take more than a day after the election to know who won. See below for examples of those results.
Here are some factual messages that would be most helpful for voters to hear:
- Patience is key. It may take several days—or even weeks—to get final results in the presidential election and other close races. And some close races will go to recounts. That’s normal. It’s a sign the system is working, and that election officials are focused on making sure every vote is counted and that the results are accurate.
- Election workers in communities across the country will be working day and night to count and verify the results. They’ll take the time they need to get this right.
- Mail and absentee ballots take time. States have secure, step-by-step procedures to verify mail and absentee ballots before they can be counted. Each state sets its own rules for when that process begins.
- Some states can start processing mail ballots before Election Day, while others must wait, which is why results can come in at different times.
- Early results don’t tell the full story. You may see big swings as different counties report their vote totals and the current “lead” shifts back and forth. But election results aren’t complete until every eligible vote has been counted.
- Initial results will change as different counties report their vote totals. This doesn’t mean anything is wrong—it just means election officials are doing their jobs.
- Stick to trusted sources. Your state and local election officials are the best source for accurate information.
- This is a time when bad actors will try to confuse voters with conspiracy theories. Don’t fall for it. Remember, your state and local election officials are your source for truthful election information.
Survey Results: When Voters Expect Final Results of the Presidential Election in Their State
