Americans can expect, based on past elections, for some states to see delays in counting ballots on Election Day. While the 2024 election is set to take place on November 5, it can take days, or even weeks, for every state to certify their election results.
Arizona, known for its delayed ballot counting process, did not certify its 2020 election results for several weeks. The state has introduced a new step in the ballot counting process for this cycle, requiring ballot counters to hand count ballot envelopes dropped in ballot boxes before tabulation, potentially extending the time needed for results.
However, in a bid to expedite the certification process, several swing states are implementing new rules for counting ballots this year. Nevada, for instance, will allow ballot counters to commence counting votes on Election Day morning, a departure from previous years when counting could only begin after early voting closed.
Michigan is also making changes to its ballot counting procedures by permitting the counting of ballots to start eight days before Election Day. This adjustment aims to streamline the certification process and deliver results more promptly.
