Experts and officials emphasize that ensuring an accurate and secure count takes precedence over speed….reports Asian Lite News
Former President Donald Trump is intensifying calls for a swift declaration of the presidential race winner soon after polls close, despite the complexity of vote counting. Trump’s demand echoes his 2020 declaration of victory before all ballots were tallied, which fueled baseless claims of election fraud.
However, experts and officials emphasize that ensuring an accurate and secure count takes precedence over speed. Republican lawmakers in key swing states like Pennsylvania and Wisconsin have resisted changes that would allow early processing of mail ballots, contributing to delays. Close races, as expected in 2024, naturally extend the counting process.
Rick Hasen, a UCLA law professor, clarifies that the delay protects the integrity of the election.
David Becker, an elections expert, points out the impracticality of instantly counting millions of complex ballots across thousands of jurisdictions.
Trump’s demands disregard the vast U.S. geography and decentralized voting system.
Polls close at staggered times across six time zones, with final counts from key states often delayed due to late-arriving mail and provisional ballots. Swing states like Arizona have protocols allowing voters to rectify ballot issues post-Election Day, further extending the timeline.
Trump and his allies argue for rapid results, drawing comparisons to countries with simpler, centralized voting systems. However, the U.S. counts multiple races simultaneously across nearly 10,000 jurisdictions, each with unique procedures.
The “red mirage” phenomenon, where early results favor Republicans before mail ballots are counted, could again play out. Despite early voting showing strong Republican turnout, it doesn’t indicate the final outcome, as the content of votes remains unknown.
Ultimately, election results will only be clear after a thorough count, regardless of when polls close or declarations are made.
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