The countdown for election day in the US has begun with over 186 million Americans eligible to vote to choose the country’s 47th president.
Democratic candidate Kamala Harris, the current vice-president, and her Republican rival Donald Trump, the former president, have been engaged in a neck-to-neck contest for weeks.
States to watch out for:
In case of an orderly election, the picture will be clear as soon as most of the swing state electoral college vote results are in, as long as the states considered non-battlegrounds suddenly spring surprises. The seven swing states include - Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin.
When we will know who won?
The race to the White House does not end on election day. Historically, the winner is announced on the night of the election or the morning after. But final tallies may not be available immediately.
Here's a low-down on what happens after a US presidential election
Once the polling closes, depending on how tight the contest is, it is likely the winner will not be known for several hours, days or even weeks.
Key dates to watch:
Election Day: November 5 - Most Americans vote in person or by mail.
Certification deadlines: November 6 - December 11 - All states must complete the process of certifying election results by December 11.
Electoral College vote: December 17 - Electors meet to cast their official votes for president and vice president.
Swearing-in of representatives and senators: January 3 - Newly elected members of Congress are sworn in.
Congress counts electoral votes: January 6, 2025 - Congress convenes to count and confirm electoral votes.
Inauguration Day: January 20, 2025 - The president-elect is sworn in, marking the transition of power.
Two scenarios: Order vs Chaos
Orderly elections
If the outcome is clear, and there is no margin for suspense or suspicion, the losing candidate traditionally admits defeat on the election night itself. Soon after, the winner delivers a victory speech addressing his or her supporters.
What happens if the elections are not orderly?
Though unlikely – if one candidate does not concede, the Republicans or Democrats could file numerous lawsuits challenging the outcome and seeking recounting of votes. The recounts, if ordered by the courts, can take hours or even days, as it is systematic but arduous process.
The two scenarios:
If Harris wins
There could be a legal and information war aimed at preventing the certification of Harris’ victor. According to a report, Harris needs a clear win in at least five out of seven swing states.
If Trump wins
It is highly unlikely that Harris would not concede if the verdict is clearly in the favour of Trump. According to a report, if Trump were sworn in as President, the status quo would shift back to January 21. A greater anxiety is expected over the second term for Trump as it would indicate manipulation of power. Trump has already announced that he would use the powers of the presidency to seek vengeance on his perceived foes.
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