In every election, voters choose their president and a new Congress that will play a huge role in passing laws that affect our lives. As a result, it can be emotionally and psychologically distressing to follow the results of an election. This is especially true when the results are close, but have not yet been certified. Getting trustworthy information from sources you trust is crucial. Research shows that trust in credible news can help to buffer feelings of stress and instability. If you are following the results, be sure to check in with AP and Reuters as well as local media sources and avoid sensational headlines on social media (TikTok, Facebook and X).
After polls close on Election Day, local officials begin counting ballots to determine the outcome of an election. The process can continue for days (and in some cases, weeks) after Election Day, as additional ballots are recanvassed and counted, including those from early in-person voting, mail ballots, military and overseas ballots, and provisional ballots.
During this time, media outlets report unofficial results that are based on the counting that is occurring at the local level. As a result, there may be small differences from one media outlet to the next as they allocate resources differently and receive updates from different places at varying speeds.
Ultimately, the chief election official in each state is responsible for certifying the final results of an election. Be sure to check in with your secretary of state’s website for more detailed, nonpartisan information about election results and their timing.
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