Election results

Why Waiting for Election Results is Like Waiting for Your Instant Noodles to Cook! 🍜

Election results are in, but don't hold your breath! Here's when we may finally know who won – spoilers, it could take a while!

Election Day in America is just around the corner, and with it comes the burning question that keeps citizens glued to their TV screens: When will we know the election results? While we can all agree that the suspense is gripping, it's important to understand that the race for the presidency, especially in 2024, is likelier to be a nail-biter. The candidates competing are none other than Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. So, if you're hoping for some quick results, get ready for a curveball!

As we've seen in previous elections, notably in 2020, results don’t always come fast. In that election, news organizations didn’t declare Joe Biden the winner until several days after Election Day—a process that can range from chaotic to calm depending on how close the race is in key battleground states. This year, the stakes are even higher as polls suggest a tight competition. Depending on how the voting plays out in various states, the outcomes may be delayed. Voters are encouraged to pack their patience, as it might take additional days—or even weeks—to sift through the complex layers of mail-in ballots and electronic votes.

So, what will determine when we know the victor? The process is pretty intricate. Official tallies won't come in until not just votes are counted, but also the all-important electoral college votes are finalized. For those of us not well-versed in political jargon, just remember that a lot of behind-the-scenes planning goes into ensuring a fair process before leaders emerge. And be prepared for the fact that even once we think we know who won, it might not be proclaimed officially until every hurdle has been jumped—think of a marathon but with more red tape and occasional social media rants.

As we await the big reveal, let’s not forget an interesting historical tidbit: the longest delay in declaring a U.S. presidential election winner was in 1876, with Rutherford B. Hayes declared the winner nearly four months after Election Day. And here’s another fun fact for your quiz nights: the current electoral college system was inspired by concerns about direct democracy and the fear that the populace might not always make informed choices. So, whether you're team Harris or team Trump, get your snacks ready because this wait might just be the most dramatic season finale of the year!