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Election 2024

US Voting Systems, Targets of Conspiracy Theories, get Tested for Accuracy, Security

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The integrity of U.S. voting systems has been under heightened scrutiny since the 2020 presidential election, with conspiracy theories claiming that machines were manipulated to favor President Joe Biden over former President Donald Trump. Despite these allegations, multiple investigations and reviews in battleground states confirmed the accuracy of the election results, with no evidence of widespread fraud. In a notable legal development, Fox News agreed to a $787 million settlement with Dominion Voting Systems, a leading voting machine manufacturer, to avoid a defamation trial over false claims that Dominion’s machines had rigged the election.

Amid this climate of doubt, election officials across the country have been working diligently to demonstrate the security and accuracy of voting systems in preparation for upcoming elections. Nearly all ballots cast in the 2024 election will have a paper trail, providing a verifiable record in the event of errors or cyberattacks.

What is a Voting Machine?

Voting machines and election technology vary by jurisdiction, but common elements include electronic pollbooks, voter registration systems, and election management systems used to create, track, and issue ballots. Election-night reporting systems then communicate unofficial results. The widespread reliance on technology, while efficient, introduces cybersecurity risks that election officials must carefully manage. For example, many voting systems are kept isolated from the internet, and sensitive data is transferred using secured storage devices like USB sticks. Where internet connections are necessary, private networks are often used to limit exposure to potential threats.

In many parts of the U.S., voters mark paper ballots by hand, which are then scanned and counted electronically. In other cases, voters use computers to make their selections, after which a printed record of their choices is generated for later scanning. This ensures that a paper trail exists for recounts or audits.

Are Voting Machines Connected to the Internet?

In general, voting machines are not connected to the internet, a critical safeguard against cyberattacks. However, in some areas, ballot scanners are permitted to transmit unofficial results via private mobile networks after polling has closed. While this allows for faster reporting on election night, security experts warn that even limited connectivity poses unnecessary risks. Despite this, officials emphasize that paper ballots provide a crucial backup for verifying election results.

Are Voting Machines Secure?

Since Russia’s attempt to scan state voter registration systems for vulnerabilities in 2016, U.S. election security has been significantly bolstered. The designation of election systems as critical infrastructure has allowed the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to offer free cybersecurity assessments and vulnerability testing to election offices nationwide. Jen Easterly, CISA’s director, has assured the public that “election infrastructure has never been more secure” thanks to ongoing efforts by election officials.

However, cybersecurity experts continue to push for additional precautions, particularly in states like Georgia, where some voting machines electronically mark ballots for voters. There are ongoing legal battles aimed at replacing these machines with hand-marked paper ballots, which are considered more secure by some election security advocates. Concerns have also grown over security breaches that occurred in the aftermath of the 2020 election, where Trump allies gained unauthorized access to voting systems in Georgia and elsewhere. Experts warn that these breaches and the public release of sensitive election software have created serious security vulnerabilities, prompting calls for a federal investigation.

Ensuring Accuracy

Election officials employ a range of safeguards to ensure that voting systems function accurately and securely. Physical security measures, such as restricted access to machines and tamper-evident seals, are standard practices. Equipment is rigorously tested before elections, with test ballots run through machines to verify that they count votes correctly. After the election, officials conduct postelection audits and reviews to catch any errors or irregularities.

Approximately 98% of ballots cast in the 2024 election will include a paper record, according to a report from the Brennan Center for Justice. This paper trail is crucial for ensuring that, even in the event of an error or cyberattack, officials can confirm the correct result. Election experts emphasize that these systems, combined with a growing culture of transparency in election management, are designed to protect the integrity of U.S. elections.

In an environment where distrust in voting systems has been stoked by misinformation, election officials are doubling down on security and transparency. They aim to reassure the public that voting systems are secure, accurate, and more resilient than ever before.

Election 2024

Rogan, Musk, and the ‘Heterodoxy’: How Trump’s Victory Resonated with the New Right

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The night Donald Trump secured a second term as president of the United States, a distinct group of voices — often associated with the so-called “heterodoxy” — erupted in celebration. These male podcasters, influencers, and personalities, many with sizable followings among young men, have long marketed themselves as free-thinking, anti-establishment figures, evading traditional political labels. But as Trump’s re-election became a reality in the early hours of Wednesday, they openly embraced the hyper-masculine vision that he championed.

This group — which includes notable figures like Joe Rogan, Elon Musk, Jordan Peterson, and controversial YouTube influencers like Sneako — has built an influential platform on masculinity, defiance of political correctness, and skepticism toward liberal social policies. As Trump’s victory unfolded, they not only endorsed it, but celebrated it with the fervor of newfound ideological certainty. Where once they might have shied away from publicly committing to Trump, they now reveled in his win, proudly aligning themselves with his populist, anti-woke rhetoric.

Joe Rogan’s Endorsement of Trump: A Pivot to the Right

Perhaps one of the most high-profile figures in this shifting landscape is Joe Rogan. Once a Bernie Sanders supporter and later a vocal libertarian, Rogan’s transition to backing Trump is a key example of the “heterodox” turn toward the right. His podcast, The Joe Rogan Experience, boasts an 81% male audience, many of whom echo Rogan’s evolving political leanings. Rogan’s embrace of Trump came after a series of interviews, including one with Elon Musk, who has become a central figure in this new political alignment.

On election night, Rogan’s reaction to Trump’s projected victory was a visceral expression of approval: a brief, unrestrained exclamation of “holy shit” as he watched Trump’s election party. In a post-election video, he attributed his shift toward Trump to Musk, whom he called a key influence in helping him see Trump as the best option for America’s future. This endorsement from Rogan, who once considered himself more centrist or even left-leaning, was a significant signal of the political realignment taking place among his fanbase.

Elon Musk and the Far-Right Embrace

Elon Musk’s shift from a progressive icon to a figurehead for far-right discourse has been well-documented over the past few years. After his 2022 acquisition of Twitter, Musk, who had previously voted for Obama and opposed Trump in 2016, increasingly aligned himself with the conservative wing of the political spectrum. Following Trump’s victory in 2024, Musk posted a cheeky image on X (formerly Twitter) holding a sink in the Oval Office — a reference to his own media takeover — accompanied by the phrase “let that sink in.” This playful yet pointed message not only celebrated Trump’s victory but also underscored Musk’s role in amplifying right-wing narratives.

Musk’s influence has extended to amplifying controversial figures like Alex Jones, Nick Fuentes, and other far-right personalities. His engagement with content dismissing transgender rights and promoting transphobic rhetoric has become a hallmark of his public persona, particularly after his daughter publicly came out as transgender. Musk’s online platform now serves as a megaphone for far-right voices, solidifying his place within this new political ecosystem that celebrates Trump’s return to power.

Young Men and the Hegemonic Masculinity of Trumpism

One of the most striking trends in the 2024 election was the overwhelming support for Trump among young men, particularly those aged 18-29. Exit polls revealed that men in this age group preferred Trump over his opponent, Kamala Harris, by a 56% to 42% margin. This demographic, many of whom have faced economic dissatisfaction and societal pressure, finds resonance in Trump’s traditionalist views on gender roles and masculinity.

A 2021 study identified belief in “hegemonic masculinity” — the idea that men should be dominant, tough, and emotionally stoic — as a key predictor of support for Trump. The heterodox figures who champion these values, such as Jordan Peterson and Sneako, have tapped into the frustrations of young men who feel alienated by contemporary gender norms and progressive social policies. These influencers preach a return to traditional gender roles, where men are expected to be strong, assertive, and, above all, in positions of power. The glorification of hyper-masculinity among these influencers has provided a script for their followers to reject what they view as the softness of modern society.

The Rise of the ‘Bro-Centric’ Political Scene

The rise of Trump’s support within the heterodoxy also marks a larger shift away from traditional political campaigning. Trump’s strategic use of podcasts, social media, and unconventional media outlets allowed him to bypass traditional methods like door-knocking and grassroots canvassing. Instead, his campaign capitalized on the growing influence of figures like Rogan, Musk, and Peterson, whose platforms were instrumental in amplifying his message to young, disaffected men. This unorthodox method of engagement may have played a pivotal role in Trump’s re-election victory, signaling that the future of political campaigning may increasingly depend on the “bro-centric” online spaces that cater to right-wing ideologies.

Emboldened by Victory, the Heterodoxy Moves Right

As Trump’s second term begins to take shape, the heterodoxy stands poised to continue shaping the political discourse. Figures like Sneako, Jordan Peterson, and Dave Portnoy have fully embraced their rightward shift, with many others in the heterodox ecosystem echoing the sentiment that liberal and progressive politics have failed them. With Trump’s victory, they feel emboldened in their rejection of the mainstream political establishment and increasingly aligned with the far-right agenda. Whether through their online platforms, media ventures, or public statements, this new wave of political influencers is not just a passing trend — they represent a growing faction within the broader right-wing movement, one that is only gaining momentum as their support base continues to expand.

In the aftermath of the election, the heterodoxy has emerged as a key player in the ongoing transformation of American politics. With their messages resonating powerfully with young men in particular, this group is likely to remain a fixture in the political landscape for the foreseeable future, shaping public discourse and influencing the direction of conservative politics in America.

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Election 2024

Biden Acknowledges Trump’s Victory, Calls Election Process “Fair” and “Transparent”

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Biden Acknowledges Trump’s Victory, Calls Election Process “Fair” and “Transparent”

In a solemn address from the Rose Garden on Thursday, U.S. President Joe Biden, a long-standing Democratic figure, acknowledged President-elect Donald Trump’s victory in this week’s election, characterizing it as “fair” and “transparent.” Biden confirmed that he would support a peaceful transfer of power on January 20, commending the electoral process despite the loss of his vice president and running mate, Kamala Harris.

“The will of the people always prevails,” Biden told a group of White House aides, emphasizing the importance of respecting democratic outcomes regardless of political affiliations. “As I’ve said many times, you can’t love your country only when you win. And you can’t love your neighbor only when you agree,” he added. Reflecting on Harris’s campaign, Biden praised her efforts as “inspiring,” noting that she had “given her whole heart” to the race. Despite the outcome, Biden expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We’re going to be okay, but we need to stay engaged… and keep the faith.”

Looking back on his administration, Biden described his tenure as “historic,” underscoring his administration’s accomplishments, particularly in infrastructure and economic recovery. Biden stated that he leaves Trump with “the strongest economy in the world,” a sentiment he contends is bolstered by data but contradicted by significant voter dissatisfaction. Exit polls revealed concerns among Trump supporters over Biden’s economic policies, especially regarding inflation and rising consumer prices, which many said had strained household budgets during his time in office.

Trump, who pledged during his campaign to curb inflation without offering specific details, has proposed tax cuts aimed at bolstering consumer spending, especially for higher-income households and corporations. However, these proposed cuts could further inflate the national debt, which currently stands at nearly $36 trillion.

After congratulating Trump over the phone, Biden extended an invitation for Trump to visit the White House to discuss the transition of power. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence announced on Thursday that Trump would be offered U.S. intelligence briefings consistent with long-standing tradition, though it remains unclear whether Trump has requested them.

Trump’s Swift Transition Plans and Key Appointments

In the days following his victory, Trump is expected to announce key appointments to his incoming administration, potentially within days. At his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, Trump is deliberating over his options with close advisers, including transition leaders Howard Lutnick and Linda McMahon. Even before the election, discussions were underway with prospective candidates for White House and Cabinet roles.

Notably, Trump is rumored to be considering Tesla CEO Elon Musk, a supporter and campaign contributor, for a role aimed at identifying government inefficiencies and reducing spending. Additionally, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a longtime public health advocate who has controversially criticized COVID-19 vaccinations, could be tapped to oversee health policy. Trump’s team is also considering high-profile Wall Street figures for key economic positions and may enlist some Republican senators to lead Cabinet departments.

Trump aides are preparing a comprehensive list of executive orders and regulatory reversals for Trump to enact on his first day in office, aiming to dismantle policies implemented during Biden’s presidency.

Biden’s Endorsement of Harris Amid Campaign Setback

Biden, initially vying for reelection, withdrew from the race following a series of challenges, including a damaging debate performance in June and plummeting poll numbers. He subsequently endorsed Harris, expressing high regard for her campaign. In a statement, Biden praised Harris as a “tremendous partner and public servant,” highlighting her courage, integrity, and vision for a “more free, more just” America.

“Under extraordinary circumstances, she stepped up and led a historic campaign,” Biden said, underscoring Harris’s efforts to embody the values of equality and opportunity throughout her presidential bid.

As Biden prepares to exit the White House, his administration’s legacy and Trump’s impending return create a consequential moment in U.S. politics. The transition marks a critical juncture as Trump reclaims leadership amid deep political divides and significant domestic challenges.

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Election 2024

World Leaders Congratulate Trump on Expected Election Win

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As former U.S. President Donald Trump appears poised for a historic return to the White House, world leaders swiftly offered their congratulations, marking a response to Trump’s unexpected comeback. While the VOA has not yet declared an official winner, projections indicate that Trump has overcome his Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris, in a series of critical swing states, rekindling relationships with allies and signaling potential challenges for diplomatic and military alliances worldwide.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, one of Trump’s staunchest allies during his first term, was among the first to extend his congratulations. In a message underscoring the “great alliance between Israel and America,” Netanyahu framed Trump’s apparent win as a “powerful recommitment” to the longstanding U.S.-Israel relationship. Similarly, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized Trump’s “peace through strength” approach, expressing optimism that a second Trump presidency could expedite a peaceful resolution to Ukraine’s conflict with Russia.

NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte echoed these sentiments, acknowledging that Trump’s leadership will be “key to keeping our Alliance strong.” Trump’s first term was marked by criticism of NATO, as he argued for increased European contributions to defense spending. Yet, in his congratulatory message, Rutte focused on the opportunity for NATO to reinforce its strategic stability, a notion echoed by European leaders aiming to smooth relations with the Trump administration.

French President Emmanuel Macron, who had a complicated relationship with Trump during his initial tenure, congratulated the president-elect and expressed readiness to collaborate on mutual goals, particularly regarding defense, innovation, and climate policy. British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, emphasizing the “special relationship” between the U.K. and the U.S., expressed confidence in continued cooperation on issues from security to technological innovation.

Across Europe, congratulations came from both traditional allies and populist leaders. Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, praised the “true partnership” between the U.S. and the EU, a relationship previously tested by Trump’s imposition of tariffs on European imports. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, a long-time Trump supporter, called his win the “biggest comeback in U.S. political history,” underscoring Orban’s alignment with Trump’s conservative policies.

Asia’s leaders followed suit, marking what they hope will be a prosperous chapter for their countries’ relations with Washington. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, calling Trump a friend, expressed eagerness to strengthen U.S.-India collaboration on strategic and economic fronts, building on their close rapport from Trump’s prior term. Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed their confidence in the enduring U.S. partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region. Marcos Jr. framed the U.S.-Philippines alliance as a “force for good,” while Albanese highlighted shared values and security commitments.

Notably absent from the congratulatory messages was Russian President Vladimir Putin, though former Russian President Dmitry Medvedev took to social media to celebrate Harris’s apparent loss, signaling the Kremlin’s ongoing interest in U.S. internal politics.

With Trump on the brink of an official second term, international allies and adversaries alike brace for an era marked by an “America First” approach that is likely to reshape alliances and foreign policy priorities in the coming years.

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Election 2024

Trump Elected 47th US President

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Donald Trump has been elected as the 47th president of the United States following a hard-fought campaign and victories in critical battleground states, including Pennsylvania and Wisconsin. His path to the White House was paved with significant wins across traditionally competitive regions, securing at least 267 electoral votes and surpassing the 270 required majority. Despite an early advantage in solidly blue states, Vice President Kamala Harris faced an uphill battle as Trump clinched pivotal victories in Georgia and North Carolina, effectively closing the path to a Harris win.

This election represents a historic moment, marking Trump as the first president since Grover Cleveland in the 1890s to serve non-consecutive terms. Addressing his supporters at a Florida rally, Trump credited his victory to what he described as “the greatest political movement of all time,” pledging to “fix our borders” and work toward a “strong, safe, and prosperous America.”

The Republican Party also regained control of the Senate in Tuesday’s elections, though the House majority remains uncertain as results continue to come in. The mixed results reflect a fragmented political landscape, leaving both parties bracing for potential recounts and legal disputes. Complexities surrounding state-specific voting rules, particularly around mail-in ballots and counting processes, could mean additional delays. Both the Trump and Harris campaigns are prepared with legal teams to monitor and, if needed, challenge results.

As the world watches, one of the key issues for the incoming administration will be the U.S. relationship with China, particularly in light of ongoing tensions over Taiwan, trade, and China’s increased presence in the South China Sea. Vincent Wang, a foreign policy expert from Adelphi University, noted that China may alter its approach depending on the U.S. leader. While Wang suggested that China might pursue an “expanded gray area strategy” under a Harris administration, the unpredictability of a Trump-led White House could serve as a deterrent, given Trump’s history of imposing sudden tariffs and taking aggressive stances.

The president-elect is set to assume office on January 20, 2025, marking the formal start of his four-year term. With tensions across global hotspots—including Ukraine and the Israel-Gaza conflict—the next administration will face mounting international challenges as it begins another chapter of American foreign and domestic policy.

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Election 2024

Assassination Attempt on Minister Kahin

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The recent assassination attempt on Mohamed Kahin, the Minister of Internal Affairs of Somaliland, has heightened tensions in the lead-up to the November 13 elections, spotlighting the deepening conflict between the government and opposition forces in the region. The minister, a respected figure in Somaliland’s independence struggle, was reportedly targeted by the Gacan Libah rebels, an armed group with alleged ties to the opposition Wadani party, as he attempted to address their establishment of military bases in eastern Somaliland.

This attempted assassination follows a period of escalating violence, with the rebels claiming to defend against what they describe as terrorist threats in the eastern town of Qorilugad, where recent attacks have fueled insecurity across the region. Somaliland has also faced ongoing attacks from SSC forces near Las Anod, which local authorities claim are backed by the Somali government. Against this backdrop, the opposition Wadani party has signaled its discontent with the current administration, suggesting that a loss in the upcoming election could lead them to further challenge the government’s authority.

Minister Kahin, a veteran figure known for his role in the fight for Somaliland’s autonomy, narrowly escaped the assassination attempt, which took place amid an official visit to eastern Somaliland. According to local reports, when the minister approached rebel forces in an attempt to ease the situation, he was met with live fire. This incident marks an escalation by the rebels, who reportedly killed 11 members of the national police in a previous confrontation, underscoring their willingness to engage in violence to advance their cause.

The government and citizens of Somaliland are now closely watching how the administration will respond to these events in the days before the election, as concerns grow over the possibility of further violence or disruptions that could destabilize the political landscape. With Wadani supporters allegedly seeking to undermine the current administration and jeopardize Somaliland’s bid for recognized independence, the attempted assassination has cast a dark shadow over the nation’s political process, raising fears of an impending civil conflict.

This critical juncture underscores a pressing need for stability and lawful governance, as Somaliland seeks to maintain its political autonomy in an increasingly volatile region.

United Front: Somaliland Military and SSB Stand Against SSC-Khatumo Terrorism in Lasanod

Somaliland Sounds the Alarm: Rising Al-Shabaab-Houthi Alliance Threatens Regional Stability

Wake Up, Somaliland: Fulfill Your Mission or Betray Your Land

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Election 2024

Somaliland: Africa’s Beacon of Democracy

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As November 13 Approaches, Citizens Prepare to Affirm Their Identity and Shape Their Future Through Peaceful Elections.

Somaliland stands as a beacon of hope and democracy, poised to conduct its elections on November 13, 2024. Unlike many nations on the continent, Somaliland has successfully cultivated a unique political environment characterized by peace, stability, and civic engagement, despite lacking international recognition. As the people of Somaliland prepare to cast their ballots, it is essential to reflect on what makes this nation a shining example of democracy in Africa.

Somaliland’s electoral process is deeply rooted in traditions of consensus and community involvement. The peaceful coexistence of its diverse clans, alongside a commitment to free and fair elections, has fostered a political landscape where citizens actively engage in governance. Unlike many African nations grappling with electoral violence and corruption, Somaliland has demonstrated that democratic processes can flourish even in the absence of official recognition. The upcoming elections reflect the people’s desire for self-determination and their unwavering commitment to shaping their future.

For the citizens of Somaliland, the stakes are high. Voting is not just a civic duty; it is an opportunity to affirm their identity and aspirations. Somalilanders understand the pain of political instability, and they yearn for continued peace and prosperity. By electing leaders who prioritize democracy and good governance, citizens can enhance their lives and solidify Somaliland’s place on the world stage. Real-world testimonials from past voters illustrate the pride and hope that comes with participating in this unique electoral exercise, with many expressing how their votes represent a commitment to a brighter future.

The global community should take note. Somaliland is a living testament to the power of democracy; its success serves as a model for other nations striving for stability and recognition. The world has witnessed how this unrecognized territory has thrived in peace, sustainable development, and democratic ideals. As Somalilanders head to the polls, they have the chance to declare their desire for greater global acknowledgment and support.

I urge every eligible voter to make their voice heard this November. Your vote is a powerful statement of unity and resilience. As you step into the ballot box, remember that you are not only casting a vote for your future but also sending a message to the world about the potential of Somaliland as a democratically recognized entity in Africa.

Somaliland democracy is not just a local solution; it is a testament to what Africa can achieve when given the chance. By investing your vote in this democratic process, you contribute to a wave of hope that can inspire others across the continent. Let’s show the world that Somaliland is more than a dream; it is a flourishing reality deserving of recognition.

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Election 2024

When Will we Know Who Has Won The US Election?

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The results of the U.S. presidential election, held on November 5, could emerge as quickly as election night or extend over several days due to an especially close contest between incumbent Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Media networks, which traditionally declare a winner based on projected outcomes shortly after polls close, may exercise greater caution this year given tight polling in several key states, with early results anticipated from regions like Georgia and North Carolina but extended counting expected elsewhere.

Expected Timelines for Results

For decades, the pace of results has varied significantly. In recent history, some elections have seen results declared on the night of the vote or the following morning, as in 2016 when Trump was declared the winner around 3:00 a.m. EST, while others have stretched days, notably 2020 when results weren’t called until four days post-election. Even longer delays occurred in 2000, when the Florida recount postponed the outcome until the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision in mid-December. This year, voters may experience delays in pivotal swing states, each of which has unique procedures and timelines:

  • Georgia: Polls close at 7:00 p.m. EST, and officials expect about 75% of votes counted within the first hours, though final results may take longer.
  • North Carolina: Closing at 7:30 p.m. EST, North Carolina plans to announce results that night, though hurricane damage could impact counting in specific areas.
  • Pennsylvania: Voting concludes at 8:00 p.m. EST, yet counting only starts on Election Day morning. As a result, experts suggest it may take 24 hours or more to estimate a winner.
  • Michigan: Votes wrap at 9:00 p.m. EST, with officials able to count early ballots but prohibited from releasing results until polls close. A complete result may come by the end of Wednesday.
  • Wisconsin: With polls closing at 9:00 p.m. EST, smaller counties are expected to report quickly, but populous areas will likely push a complete count into Wednesday.
  • Arizona: Preliminary figures might emerge by 10:00 p.m. EST, but due to extensive use of mail-in ballots, full results could take days.
  • Nevada: Late-arriving mail ballots, valid if postmarked by Election Day, can arrive until November 9, extending the timeline.

The Vote-Counting Process

Ballot counting generally begins with in-person votes cast on Election Day, followed by early votes and then mail-in ballots, the latter sometimes delayed by verification processes. Election officials undertake a meticulous review—known as canvassing—where ballots are validated, examined for issues, and scanned to tally results. This process is conducted under strict regulations about observer presence and ballot handling to uphold transparency.

In swing states, recounts could further extend the timeline. For example, Pennsylvania requires an automatic recount if the margin between candidates is less than 0.5%, which could become necessary in a close race. Additionally, over 100 pre-election lawsuits—many involving voter eligibility and processes—could lead to challenges that delay the final results.

Potential for Legal Challenges

Post-election challenges may arise, as happened in 2020 when former President Trump disputed results in several states, alleging voter fraud. Since then, reforms have aimed to clarify the process for certifying results, particularly in the role of the Vice President and limits on Congressional objections to state-certified results. Despite these reforms, some election observers anticipate possible state and local-level challenges that could delay certification.

Key Dates and Procedures Following the Election

The electoral college system ultimately decides the presidency, not the popular vote alone. Each state awards a set number of electoral votes to the candidate with the most votes in that state, confirmed in meetings held by December 17. Congress then counts the electoral votes on January 6, a final confirmation step before the inauguration.

The inauguration itself is scheduled for January 20, 2025, on the U.S. Capitol grounds, marking the start of the new president’s four-year term.

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Election 2024

US Issues Election Eve Warning of Ramped-up Russian Influence Ops

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Hours before the U.S. presidential election, intelligence agencies issued a stark warning, alerting voters to a surge in foreign influence operations—primarily attributed to Russian actors—aimed at stoking distrust and division among Americans. The joint statement from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, the FBI, and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) highlighted that a wave of deceptive videos and inflammatory articles is intensifying, particularly targeting swing states where the election outcome could hinge on narrow margins.

“Russia is the most active threat,” the agencies reported, describing a pattern of manufactured content designed to question the legitimacy of the election and provoke hostility among voters. According to the intelligence assessment, the campaigns involve fabricated narratives suggesting that Americans are turning violent against each other based on political affiliations, with Kremlin-linked sources disseminating these narratives through social media and news channels.

The timing of this warning is significant, following earlier reports in which intelligence officials have cautioned that foreign actors—including Russia, Iran, and China—are stepping up influence campaigns aimed at undermining trust in U.S. democratic systems. Specifically, U.S. intelligence has documented Russian-linked media circulating false stories about alleged election fraud, such as claims of a fabricated interview alleging voter fraud in Arizona to benefit Vice President Kamala Harris, and other clips purporting to show fraudulent ballot practices.

While foreign manipulation efforts are a longstanding challenge, CISA remains confident in the resilience of the U.S. election infrastructure. CISA Director Jen Easterly underscored that the decentralized nature of U.S. elections and the rigorous cybersecurity measures in place make it exceedingly unlikely for foreign adversaries to alter the vote tally or manipulate the outcome undetected. Each state runs its own voting system, disconnected from the internet, and nearly all U.S. voters cast ballots in jurisdictions that maintain paper trails as a safeguard. Since early 2023, CISA has conducted over 700 cybersecurity assessments, along with extensive training and exercises with state and local election officials to strengthen system defenses.

Nevertheless, Election Day disruptions, including minor cyber incidents, are anticipated. The National Association of State Election Directors and the National Association of Secretaries of State urged voters to anticipate typical logistical challenges like delays, power outages, or brief interruptions. On a more concerning note, CISA has documented recent attempts to disable official election websites through distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks and even isolated cases of attempted arson at ballot drop boxes. CISA officials caution that such incidents are likely to persist through Election Day and in its aftermath, though they have yet to affect core election infrastructure.

The threat of foreign influence campaigns appears more focused on shaping perceptions than on hacking infrastructure directly. Senior CISA officials warned that mundane setbacks, such as power outages, could be manipulated by adversaries to heighten public anxiety over election security. Notably, recent Russian influence efforts have circulated widely on social media, often in short, inflammatory video formats designed to gain traction quickly.

However, experts note that these efforts have had limited reach outside niche social media platforms. According to Brian Liston, a senior threat analyst with Recorded Future’s Insikt Group, most Russian-influenced content remains confined to sites like Telegram and less mainstream social media. However, analysts like Audrey McCabe from Common Cause caution that shifts in social media policies, such as Elon Musk’s takeover of Twitter (now X), have reduced content moderation across platforms, creating a “hotbed” for misinformation that risks spilling over into more widely used networks.

In response to escalating online threats, CISA and state election officials have implemented enhanced security measures to protect polling locations and election personnel, who have faced increasing threats over recent election cycles. “We have seen very real threats of violence targeting public servants,” said a senior CISA official, underscoring the need for vigilance in safeguarding election workers and voters alike.

Despite these tensions, authorities affirm that no credible, specific threats to physical polling sites have surfaced. CISA director Easterly encouraged voters to proceed with confidence, assuring them of robust protections against any efforts to disrupt or influence the democratic process at polling stations.

As of the latest counts, more than 77 million Americans have cast their ballots during the early voting period, with millions more expected on Election Day. Amid the broader efforts to sow division, U.S. officials are calling for unity, urging voters to recognize and resist attempts to divide Americans during a critical moment in the nation’s democratic process.

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