When Will We Know How the Electoral College Voted?

The results of the Electoral College vote are determined by the electors' pledges based on the state's popular vote. As soon as the electors are selected and sworn in, we will know the outcome of these votes, which officially confirm the winner of the presidential election. Here’s what you need to know about the Electoral College voting process:

Electoral College Voting Process

The Electoral College meets in their respective state capitals on December 14 to cast their votes. This year, the results are expected to reflect a clear majority for Joe Biden, with 306 electoral votes, although almost 232 for Donald Trump. This is based on the outcome of the state popular votes.

Timing and Reporting of Results

The electors' vote is conducted in public, and the results will be reported immediately. News media sites are already providing live streams and updates, with detailed predictions on the outcome. As of now, Biden's victory seems likely, given that he just won Pennsylvania. Nevada, taking extra precautions, is holding its vote through Zoom, while Wisconsin is already meeting to vote.

For those states that do not meet their deadlines by December 14, the vote may be submitted as late as December 15, with Alaska and Hawaii as possible exceptions. Despite the secrecy surrounding the specific votes, a copy of the results is made, and two of these copies are explicitly for public inspection.

Media Coverage and Speculation

Given the nature of the media, there is virtually no doubt that you will know the result very quickly. The slightest hint of any disturbance is likely to be covered by journalists. If electors cast their votes in private, the media will certainly find a way to uncover the information, as strong public interest will drive them to do so.

Historically, the Electoral College vote is a non-event, receiving limited coverage. However, this year, the possibility of faithless electors (electors who may choose to vote against the popular vote in their states) has led to increased speculation and, therefore, more media coverage. The Associated Press has a reporter stationed in every state capital, ensuring timely results. In situations where state officials choose not to announce the results immediately, news organizations will track electors to gather information. However, it is unlikely that state officials will withhold the results out of political maneuvering, given their lack of incentive to do so.

Conclusion

We are expected to know the results by the evening of December 19, 2022. The intense public interest in this year's election means that the media will ensure we are informed of the outcome as soon as possible, making suspense a non-factor in this process.