Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris faced off in the 2024 USA Presidential Election. Today, on November 5, 2024, Americans across the country headed to the ballot boxes to determine the next leader of the United States.
After the election is called, each state’s votes will be crucial in determining the slate of electors for the Electoral College vote. This process involves voters selecting candidates and state parties’ electors to vote in the Electoral College. Once the winners in each state are determined, the state’s executive prepares a certificate of Ascertainment of appointment of electors, naming the electors and votes cast. These certificates must be issued at least six days before the Electoral College vote in mid-December.
On the day of the electoral vote, electors meet in each state to record their votes. These votes are then signed, sealed, and certified, with a sealed certificate sent to the President of the Senate and the Archivist before the fourth Wednesday in December. Congress meets on Jan. 6 to count the electoral votes and declare the winner of the election. The president and vice president are then inaugurated on Jan. 20.
Accusations of voter fraud in U.S. elections have been a topic of contention, with claims of deceased persons’ names being used to illegally obtain and cast ballots. However, studies have shown that such voter fraud is exceedingly rare. A Stanford University analysis in Washington state found only 14 cases of potential “deceased voter fraud” over an eight-year period, and an AP analysis found fewer than 475 potential cases in six swing states challenged by Trump out of 25 million votes.
While there have been calls to reform or abolish the Electoral College in favor of the popular vote, the system remains in place. The National Popular Vote Interstate Compact is one alternative that seeks to work around the amendment process, requiring states’ electoral votes to go to the national popular vote winner.
In the lead-up to the election, former President Trump bid farewell to his campaign with a final rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan. His event marked the critical battleground of Michigan in determining the outcome of the election.
As voting took place across the country, there were reports of deceased voter fraud, a form of voting fraud where someone casts a vote in the name of a deceased person. States have implemented measures like signature verification to safeguard against such fraud.
The Electoral College, established by Alexander Hamilton, plays a crucial role in the U.S. presidential elections, with electors representing each state. While there are ongoing debates on voter requirements and restrictions, the Electoral College remains a key part of the election process.
As the election results are awaited, media outlets will likely make unofficial calls on election night, but the final certification process can take days to weeks before the next president is officially declared. The certification process involves a review by state election officials before Congress certifies the final results.
In conclusion, the 2024 USA Presidential Election has highlighted the importance of the Electoral College, the integrity of the voting process, and the ongoing debates surrounding election reform. The outcome of the election will shape the future of the United States and its leadership.
