As polling stations start to close for the 2024 presidential election, voters and officials alike await the outcome of a historic race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. Here’s the latest on key moments as results unfold:
Highlights:
• Understanding AP VoteCast: Conducted by The AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research, AP VoteCast provides a comprehensive survey of the electorate, including insights into both active voters and those who chose not to participate this election.
• When to Expect Results: As polls close in six states starting at 7 p.m. EST, this page will update with presidential race outcomes, and more can be found on AP’s results hub, which also covers congressional races.
• How AP Determines Race Winners: The AP utilizes a meticulous process, analyzing vote tallies and additional data, to determine if a trailing candidate could still potentially catch up.
Early Results and Developments:
• AP Declares Trump Winner in Kentucky
Republican candidate Donald Trump has won Kentucky, claiming its eight electoral votes. This win marks his third consecutive victory in the state since 2016. Kentucky has been a Republican stronghold since 1996, with influential state figures like Senate GOP leader Mitch McConnell endorsing Trump despite earlier criticisms following the Capitol riot in 2021.
• Harris Wins Vermont
Democratic nominee Kamala Harris has claimed victory in Vermont, a state with a strong history of Democratic support. Vermont Governor Phil Scott, a Republican and vocal Trump critic, announced he voted for Harris, highlighting divisions within the Republican ranks. Harris’s win adds Vermont’s electoral votes to her tally.
• Trump Secures Indiana
Trump has also been declared the winner in Indiana, a reliably conservative state providing 11 electoral votes. Indiana has consistently supported Trump in his previous two races, with a majority of voters backing him in both 2016 and 2020.
Polling Issues and Delays:
• Voting Extension in Georgia After Bomb Threats
In the Atlanta metro area, bomb threats led to temporary suspensions at several polling locations in DeKalb County. While all threats were determined to be noncredible, officials have extended voting hours to ensure affected voters can cast their ballots. Earlier in the day, similar threats were reported in other parts of the region.
• Delayed Ballot Counts in Milwaukee
Officials in Milwaukee reported that around 31,000 absentee ballots need recounting due to ballot tabulator issues. While the initial counts are believed to be accurate, officials are recounting out of caution to maintain transparency.
Other Notable Election Day Incidents:
• Concerns in Pennsylvania Over Unsubstantiated Claims
Trump raised allegations of widespread cheating in Philadelphia, but both Republican and Democratic officials dismissed these as unfounded. Philadelphia’s election board confirmed voting procedures remain secure and unaffected by Trump’s claims.
• High Voter Concern Over Rising Costs
AP VoteCast reveals that household budget concerns are top of mind for many voters, with approximately 70% expressing deep concern about food prices, while over half worry about health care costs and housing affordability.
Stay tuned for further updates as more polls close and results become available.
