The day after Election Day, the votes are counted and the results are reported to voters. However, the official certified results won’t be known until the ballots are canvassed (a process that ensures all votes have been accounted for).
In addition to the canvass, there may be recounts in close races if a candidate is within a certain percentage of the first place winner. Recount rules vary by state.
It is completely normal to feel sad or scared when election results don’t align with your expectations. However, your emotions can take a toll on your mental health if you don’t manage them effectively. Try to focus on healthy ways to process your emotions, such as spending time with friends or engaging in mindful self-care activities. And, remember that it’s important to stay connected to reputable news sources that can help you navigate the information landscape. Avoid social media or “fake news” outlets that are likely to emphasize sensational headlines and to reinforce negative partisanship.
While the FEC administers federal campaign finance laws, it doesn’t have jurisdiction over elections at the state and local level. Instead, it is up to each state’s chief election officials, like their secretaries of state, to certify the official results of their elections. For more information, visit the official website of your secretary of state.
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