The Pennsylvania Department of State has announced that the results of the upcoming election may not be available on election night due to expected delays in ballot counting.
The situation echoes the 2020 election, where initial leads shifted as mail-in ballots were counted.
“Pennsylvanians won’t always know the final results of all races on election night. Any changes in results that occur as counties continue to count ballots are not evidence that an election is ‘rigged,’” the department stated.
Pennsylvanians won’t always know the final results of all races on election night. Any changes in results that occur as counties continue to count ballots are not evidence that an election is “rigged.” See the full explanation at https://t.co/viVtWSw4HL. pic.twitter.com/gbaDh8lJpX
— PA Department of State (@PAStateDept) August 8, 2024
“If the electoral college comes down to Pennsylvania or Wisconsin, we might still face a long period where we don’t know the winner,” elections expert Rachel Orey said.
Despite discussions in the legislature to expedite the process, no legislation was passed to allow pre-canvassing of ballots.
As a critical battleground state, Pennsylvania’s electoral votes could significantly impact the presidential race, and if the election is close, final results may take several days to be determined.
Polls indicate a competitive race, with former President Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris closely contesting voter support.
