Election results

Election Buzz: Will We Know the Next US President Before Your Takeaway Arrives?

As the US gears up for its nail-biting 2024 election, find out when we might know who won—spoiler alert, it could take a bit longer than you'd like!

As we gear up for the US presidential election in 2024, many are left wondering, "When will we actually know who’s won?" Historical patterns suggest that our evening plans may be interrupted—not by the stars of a popular TV drama, but by unending election updates. Just like in 2020, we might find ourselves twiddling our thumbs, waiting for the results as they come pouring in slowly, like a trickle of molasses on a cold day. The Associated Press famously took four days to call Biden the winner, so don’t pack your bags too quickly!

The current political duel between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris is set to be one for the books, with many officials warning that results could take days to become official. With key battleground states involved, it’s much like watching a gripping sports match where the tension builds as the clock runs down. Expect live updates around 6.00pm EST/11.00pm GMT on election night, but don’t start the celebration just yet; those results could simmer for quite a while.

What’s keeping the nation on edge? Well, some states, including Alaska, won’t even have their polls closed until 5 AM GMT on November 6! The process of counting votes, especially in closely contested areas, can be quite the labor-intensive task. Whether ballots are mailed or cast in-person adds layers to the complexity, much like choosing between a takeaway or home-cooked meals—you can never be quite sure what will best satisfy your cravings!

And as we wait for results, remember: slow wins the race! Every vote counts, and with some states taking longer for certification, it’s not just about who’s winning—it's about ensuring every vote is counted. So, grab your popcorn and prepare for a long night (or few nights) of nail-biting election drama. Here’s a fun fact to keep you entertained: in the 2000 presidential election, it took weeks to determine the winner due to controversial vote counting in Florida, proving that patience truly is a virtue when it comes to democracy!

In fact, did you know that the 2016 election was one of the most contentious in history, with results known on election night, but questions lingering about the electoral process even years later? As we watch the events unfold this time, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rollercoaster of voting—it’s not just about the destination, but the wild ride leading there!