Swing states: What you need to know about the vote count

Today, voters across the country go to the polls to participate in the presidential election. Reports indicate that vote counting will extend beyond election night. Even in states that tend to have a quick count, if the race is as close as polls suggest, it could be several days before a winner can be predicted, since the results are not considered official until final certification.

As Election Day progresses, it is crucial to understand what to expect from the vote count in the swing states, those that have historically defined the direction of elections. These states are particularly relevant because of their ability to shift the balance of power between political parties, becoming true battlegrounds in each election cycle. Below, we highlight states that have a particular importance in this electoral cycle, along with the reasons that justify their relevance in the race.

Arizona

Polls close at 9 p.m. (EST).

Initial results usually come in around 10 p.m., but the count could take several days due to the high number of mail-in ballots. Arizona is a state in transition, with a diverse population that makes it a key indicator of election trends.

North Carolina

Polls close at 7:30 p.m. (EST).

Early voting is very common and votes are usually counted quickly, but this year, new regulations prevent early voting results from being reported immediately at the close of the polls, although vote-by-mail ballots are due today. North Carolina, being a swing state, is a key factor in this race, as its outcome can significantly influence either party's victory.

Georgia

Polls close at 7 p.m. (EST).

Although the vote count in Georgia is fast, the voting margin is an essential factor. This state plays a decisive role not only in the presidential election, but also in the composition of the Senate and House of Representatives. Most voters cast their ballots in person before Election Day, so the number of absentee ballots is expected to be relatively low. However, provisional ballots and those mailed in with corrections may still be counted in the days following Election Day.

Michigan

Polls close from 8-9 p.m. (EST).

Michigan has passed reforms that could speed up the count. Some of the votes are expected to be counted before midnight, although some counties may begin processing ballots before the polls close.

This state is significant not only for its number of electoral votes, but also for its history of shifts in voter preference between elections.

Nevada

Polls close at 10 p.m. (EST).

As in Arizona, the count is expected to take several days. Nevada has experienced an increase in Latino voter turnout, which could significantly influence the outcome. New technologies and regulations could speed up the process, but postmarked ballots could still arrive up to four days after the election.

Pennsylvania

Polls close at 8 p.m. (EST).

The vote count in Pennsylvania will take longer than in previous years, as poll workers cannot begin processing mail-in ballots until Election Day. Pennsylvania has been decisive in previous elections, and its outcome could make a difference in the presidential contest. However, improvements have been implemented since 2020 that could streamline the process.

Wisconsin

Polls close at 9 p.m. (EST).

Poll workers are required to count ballots throughout the night until they are finished. Wisconsin has been an electoral battleground in recent cycles, and its outcome is crucial for both parties. Full, unofficial results are expected to be available Wednesday morning.

With Election Day underway, all eyes are on the vote count. As this process moves forward, it is critical that voters stay informed through reliable sources and closely follow the results in each state.