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The United States holds its elections on Election Day, a significant event, especially during presidential elections. Voting hours vary across states, with most polls opening between 6:00 am and 7:00 am local time, and closing between 7:00 pm and 8:00 pm. Key battleground states, known for their potential to sway the election outcome, have specific timelines and considerations. In Pennsylvania, polling stations open at 7:00 am and close at 8:00 pm, with extended lines anticipated due to its large urban and suburban population. Georgia, another battleground state, opens polls at 7:00 am and closes at 7:00 pm, with voters in line by 7:00 pm allowed to cast their ballots. Arizona, with a substantial number of early and mail-in voters, sees polls open from 6:00 am to 7:00 pm. However, close races may result in delays as votes from diverse areas are tabulated. Michigan, a key swing state, has polling hours from 7:00 am to 8:00 pm, similar to Pennsylvania, with its industrial centers and rural areas contributing to the time required to tally results. Wisconsin, with close contests and high voter engagement, opens polls at 7:00 am and closes at 8:00 pm local time. It counts all ballots on Election Day, potentially leading to quicker results compared to states with extended absentee ballot counting periods. Florida, spanning two time zones, sees polls open at 7:00 am and close at 7:00 pm, with its efficient ballot-counting processes often resulting in early preliminary results. However, close races can still delay results due to recount procedures if necessary. Nevada, with high levels of absentee and early voting, has polls open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm local time. Due to the time required to process and count ballots in densely populated areas, results can be delayed.
Nationally, vote counting begins once polls close, with projections released throughout the evening as results trickle in. However, states with mail-in voting or same-day registration may take days or weeks to complete the count, especially in close races. While major news outlets may call the election based on projections, official results are certified later by each state. In some states, extensions on poll closing times are allowed in case of high turnout or inclement weather. Additionally, states accepting absentee ballots received after Election Day (if postmarked on or before) may experience delays in the final certified count, particularly in close contests. Election Day in the US is a complex process, encompassing multiple phases of voting and counting, particularly in battleground states, which significantly impact the country's direction for the next four years.
In the 2024 US election cycle, Indian American members of Congress are playing prominent roles and facing re-election challenges. Notable Indian American representatives include Ro Khanna (California), Raja Krishnamoorthi (Illinois), Pramila Jayapal (Washington), and Shri Thanedar (Michigan). Their presence reflects the growing influence of the Indian American community, active in both the Democratic and Republican parties. Ro Khanna, a Democratic representative from California's 17th Congressional District, is known for his tech-forward policies and bipartisan approach to promoting American manufacturing. His progressive stance on issues like minimum wage reform and climate change resonates with his constituents, and he remains a vocal supporter of Kamala Harris's 2024 presidential run. Raja Krishnamoorthi, also a Democrat, represents Illinois's 8th District and is a leading voice on economic reform and US-China relations. His influential role in committees focused on intelligence and oversight aims to safeguard US economic interests and cybersecurity. His emphasis on middle-class growth and worker protections aligns with his district's diverse, suburban demographic. Pramila Jayapal, representing Washington's 7th District, is a progressive force advocating for Medicare for All, immigration reform, and workers' rights. As chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, she is a key advocate for policies that align with the Indian American community's priorities, particularly in urban areas. Shri Thanedar, representing Michigan's 13th District, is the newest Indian American member of Congress. His district, with a majority African American population, has led him to focus on addressing socioeconomic issues affecting his constituents, including affordable housing and healthcare. Thanedar's unique background as a former scientist and businessman adds to his appeal in this diverse district.
Source: US votes today: Timelines, battleground states, and role of Indian American lawmakers