US Elections 2024: Final Results Timeline and Key Insights

The 2024 United States elections are set to take place on November 5, a date that has been marked on the calendars of millions of Americans. As the nation gears up for this significant event, many are left wondering when the final results will be announced. With the stakes higher than ever, the anticipation surrounding the election is palpable.

On Election Day, polling will occur across the country, with most states opening their polls between 7 AM and 9 AM local time. Due to the various time zones in the United States, this translates to polling hours ranging from 10:00 GMT to 15:00 GMT. However, the closing times for polls will differ from state to state, with most expected to close between 7 PM and 11 PM Eastern Time, which is equivalent to 00:00-05:00 GMT.

Once the polls close at 7 PM Eastern Time, vote counting will commence immediately. As the results begin to trickle in, it is important to note that the time difference in certain states may lead to delayed outcomes. While some eastern states may start announcing their results, the overall picture may remain unclear for hours, or even days. Political experts suggest that the race is incredibly tight, and it is possible that the counting could extend past midnight, leaving everyone on the edge of their seats.

According to recent data from FiveThirtyEight, candidate Harris holds a narrow national lead of approximately 1.2 points. However, political science experts caution that polls can be misleading. Raymond J. La Raja, a professor at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, emphasizes that the results could be surprising for both candidates. He notes, "If the polls are incorrect and the race is not that tight, we will get to know the results quickly." However, he also warns that the closeness of the race may lead to a situation where a candidate does not concede, resulting in a prolonged wait for the final outcome.

The swing states will play a crucial role in determining the election's result. Key states such as Pennsylvania, North Carolina, Georgia, Michigan, Arizona, Wisconsin, and Nevada collectively hold 93 Electoral College votes. To secure victory, a candidate must obtain at least 270 out of the 538 electoral votes available. Currently, the polls in these swing states are extremely close, making it difficult to predict who is leading.

In Michigan, election counting begins earlier, as officials process mail ballots before Election Day. However, there is no specific timeline for when results will be announced. In Arizona, mail ballots are processed as soon as they arrive, with initial results expected just one hour after polls close. Conversely, in Wisconsin, ballot processing cannot begin until Election Day, which may lead to delays similar to those anticipated in Pennsylvania. Reports indicate that results from Wisconsin may not be available until Wednesday.

As the nation prepares for this pivotal moment in its democratic process, it is essential for voters to remain patient and informed. The outcome of the election will not only shape the future of the United States but will also have implications that resonate globally. While the wait for results may be nerve-wracking, it is a testament to the democratic values that underpin the electoral process. As we approach November 5, one thing is certain: the eyes of the world will be watching closely.