Washington - Tarz Press: The 2024 U.S. presidential election officially began with voting in Dixville Notch, New Hampshire. The voting process, vote counting, and the U.S. electoral system have always been complex for other countries and political enthusiasts. This year, along with the presidential race, most congressional seats are also being contested. In this election, Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate, is running against Donald Trump, the former president and Republican candidate.
Who Can Vote?
Approximately 244 million Americans are eligible to vote. Individuals who are 18 or older and hold U.S. citizenship can vote. However, in some states, former prisoners are removed from voter lists. U.S. citizens working abroad, including military personnel, can participate via absentee voting.
Who Will Be Elected?
In addition to the president, 469 members of Congress will also be elected in this race. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives and over a third of the 100-member Senate are up for a vote.
Can Convicted Felons Run?
Yes. Unlike some state restrictions on voting by individuals with criminal records, there is no federal law preventing convicted individuals from running for office. Donald Trump, with 34 criminal indictments, is a notable example of a candidate running despite significant charges.
How Does Voting Work?
Voters can participate in early voting or on election day. In most states, voting is conducted either in person or by mail. Early voting began between September and October in several states, and in states like Virginia, California, Texas, and Florida, early voting continues through election day.
Importance of Voter Turnout
Voter turnout in recent U.S. elections has significantly increased. In the 2016 election, only 59% of eligible voters participated, but in 2020, this figure rose to over 66%, marking the highest turnout in a century.
When Do Polls Close?
Polling station closing times vary by state; most close between 7:00 and 8:00 p.m. local time, while some, like those in Kentucky, close at 6:00 p.m., and in New York, they remain open until 9:00 p.m. Because the U.S. spans six time zones, early results will be announced starting late at night on the East Coast.
What Happens After Polls Close?
Once the polls close, vote counting begins in various locations. If voting was done on paper, ballots are transferred to counting centers, while electronic voting data is processed digitally. Absentee and mail-in ballots follow different state rules; in 16 states, absentee ballots are counted starting on election day, while in 10 other states, counting begins before election day but results are only announced after voting ends.
How Is the Winner Determined?
To win, a candidate must secure a majority in the Electoral College, equaling 270 of the 538 total votes. The “winner-takes-all” system applies in all states except two, meaning if a candidate wins the popular vote in a state, they receive all its electoral votes. It’s possible for a candidate to win the popular vote but lose in the Electoral College, as happened with Hillary Clinton in 2016.
Role of Swing States
Swing states, where Democrats and Republicans have nearly equal support, include Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. The election outcome heavily depends on these states.
What Happens if There Is an Electoral College Tie?
If both candidates receive 269 electoral votes each, the House of Representatives elects the president. Each state has one vote, and a majority of 26 votes is needed to select the president.
Official Announcement of Results
With a close race, the final results may take time to confirm. Election disputes must be resolved by December 11, and the Electoral College formally casts its votes on December 17. Congress will count these votes on January 6, 2025, officially certifying the winner. The inauguration of the elected president will take place on January 20.
