When election results are released, it can be a high-stakes event that sparks intense emotions. People are worried about the outcome and can be exposed to misinformation and conspiracy theories as they wait for results to be tallied. In a hyper-polarized world, these events can cause anxiety and confusion. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy and in control as you await the results.
Unofficial results are available immediately after polls close. The data reflects the count of ballots submitted at all precincts that report results to election officials, including the number of votes cast and the number of ballots received. The unofficial count can be viewed by using our election results website. The unofficial count includes all ballots reported by the local election office and any absentee or provisional ballots that may have been received after Election Day, but by a state deadline.
After elections are over, local elections offices conduct a process called the canvass to confirm the informal results reported on election night. This step involves reviewing and aggregating data from all precincts, including the number of ballots that have been cast but not yet counted (including provisional ballots, ballots sent by mail, or ballots received after the election). The canvass also checks for any invalid votes. The timing of this process varies by state.
Once the votes are counted, certified results are shared. The certified results include a detailed breakdown of the number of votes each candidate received for each race, which are used to calculate vote margins and ballot counts.
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