Trump vs. Harris: How soon will we know winner?

The 2024 presidential race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris has Americans on edge, with the candidates locked in a close battle. As the results begin trickling in, many are asking: When will we know who won?

Experts say the timeline depends on how tight the race is in key swing states and each state’s vote-counting rules. Although the media might project a winner in the days following Election Day on November 5, the official result won’t be certified by Congress until January 6.

Three Scenarios Experts Foresee:

Scenario 1: The Race Is Called on Election Night

If polls were significantly off, the outcome could be clear by election night. Should Trump or Harris take a commanding lead in swing states, analysts may call the race early. However, with razor-thin margins expected, experts like Dr. Hans Noel of Georgetown University warn that “we should be prepared to sit tight.”

Scenario 2: A Decision in a Few Days

If the results in swing states remain close, the final count could take days. States like Pennsylvania can’t start tallying mail-in ballots until Election Day, which could lead to delays. Analysts compare the situation to 2020, when the result came four days after Election Day.

Scenario 3: Weeks of Waiting

If the race comes down to states with slow vote counts, such as Nevada and Pennsylvania, or if recounts and legal challenges arise, the process could extend into December. Political experts suggest a potential repeat of the 2000 election, which hinged on a Supreme Court decision over a month later.

As Election Night unfolds, one thing is clear: a conclusive answer may not come immediately. Experts advise patience, reminding voters that delays don’t necessarily indicate issues or fraud; they simply reflect the complex logistics of counting every vote in a tight race.