Election night delays are normal as states count ballots, experts say
Officials and election experts explain why vote counts often take hours or days after the polls close and warn against misinformation about ballot processing.
Election night results are rarely final, and it is common for vote tallies to shift as additional ballots are counted, according to election experts. The timing of unofficial results varies by state, the volume of mail ballots, and how close a race is, meaning some contests may not be decided for several days.
"States are neither fast nor slow; they all count and certify the results in accordance with the laws passed by their state legislature," said Ryan Macias, an election technology and cybersecurity specialist. "What is fast or slow is how quickly the media can collect sufficient evidence to confidently predict the winner, which is typically based on the margin of victory."
Joe Lenski, executive vice president of SSRS, noted that a handful of Senate and House races often remain unresolved for a week or more, especially in states such as Alaska and California where large numbers of mail ballots are processed.
Mail ballot processing can add time, as election workers must verify voter identity and, in some states, wait for ballots postmarked by Election Day to arrive. Ohio recently tightened its deadline for absentee ballots, while California allows ballots postmarked by Election Day to be counted up to a week later.
In Detroit, officials expect to report roughly 95% of ballots on election night, but the remaining absentee ballots may extend counting into the early morning hours. "It is an estimate, not a statutory deadline or guarantee," said Daniel A. Baxter, Detroit elections chief of operations.
Ranked-choice voting in Maine and Alaska can also lengthen the tabulation process, as multiple rounds of counting may be required. Maine Secretary of State Shenna Bellows said the state will work "as expeditiously and efficiently as possible" while ensuring results are accurate.
Experts emphasize that no state is required to finish counting on election night; certification deadlines are set by state law and can extend for weeks. Voters are encouraged to submit mail ballots early and use secure drop boxes to help streamline the process.