US elections

Counting Votes Faster Than Britons Drink Tea: A Guide to US Election Night from Europe!

Ready to binge-watch the US elections from your sofa? Here’s how to follow the chaos across the pond!

Following the US election night can feel like trying to solve a jigsaw puzzle blindfolded while riding a rollercoaster. Luckily for those of us cozy in Europe, there are ways to dive into this exhilarating experience amidst the election drama! The US presidential election is on November 5, 2024, and it promises to be a thrilling spectacle. Whether you’re rooting for Democrat Kamala Harris or former Republican President Donald Trump, brace yourself! The race to secure 270 electoral votes (out of 538) is what we’re all on the edge of our seats for, and trust me, it’s going to be a wild ride.

Now, you might be asking, when will we actually know who won? Well, grab your popcorn and settle in for possibly a nail-biting wait! Although polling stations close on Election Day, results can take days to finalise. Each state counts and certifies their votes differently, and the excitement is often drawn out depending on swing states, mail-in ballots, and recounts. Mark your calendar for January 20, 2025, when the official inauguration ceremony will finally reveal (drumroll, please) who will take up the mantle of the presidency!

For those living in Europe, following the results means you will have to embrace some late nights or early mornings, given the time zone difference. Look for online streams, social media updates, and dedicated news outlets that promise the most current coverage. Prepare for leaky roofs of excitement as the results pour in because, let’s face it, even coffee can't compete with the adrenaline rush of electoral anticipation. And yes, you might want to keep a scorecard handy to keep track of which states have gone red or blue. It’s almost like a (political) drinking game without the drinks!

As you gear up for this spectacle, remember the US electoral system can be more confusing than trying to figure out British humour! With each Electoral College member at stake and the battleground states playing a critical role, you’ll want to keep your eye on key locations ranging from Florida to Pennsylvania. The election buzz is not just limited to the candidates; it’s about the public, the new policies, and the global impact of the results.

Did you know that the Electoral College was established in the U.S. Constitution in 1787? It’s been a contentious topic ever since, with many calling for reform, but it remains the quirky system the US uses today. And here’s a fun fact: If history is anything to go by, the candidate leading in the polls close to Election Day doesn’t always walk away with the victory. So nobody really knows until the last votes are counted! Buckle up, Europe! The US election night awaits!