Fact Check: Election results are preliminary and not final on Election Night.

Fact Check: "Election results are preliminary and not final on Election Night."

What We Know

Election results reported on Election Night are not final. According to the U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC), the results communicated on that night are preliminary and unofficial. These results are subject to further verification and certification by state election officials, who are responsible for ensuring the accuracy and integrity of the election process. The EAC emphasizes that various factors can impact the timing and finalization of election results, making it crucial for voters to understand that what they see on Election Night is not the definitive outcome.

Furthermore, a report from the Congressional Research Service (CRS) states that "results appearing in media reports or that election jurisdictions release on election night are unofficial and preliminary" (CRS Reports). This underscores the importance of waiting for official certification before considering election results as final.

Analysis

The claim that election results are preliminary and not final on Election Night is supported by multiple credible sources. The EAC, a federal agency that provides guidance on election administration, clearly states that the results reported on Election Night are not certified and are subject to further processes (EAC). This is a critical point, as it highlights the procedural safeguards in place to ensure the accuracy of election outcomes.

The CRS also reinforces this notion by explaining that official results are not available until after Election Day, further validating the claim (CRS Reports). The fact that election results are preliminary is widely recognized among election officials, and they often communicate this to the public, although it can be challenging to convey effectively (EAC).

In evaluating the reliability of these sources, both the EAC and CRS are established entities with a mandate to provide accurate information regarding election processes. They are not politically affiliated and focus on factual reporting, which adds to their credibility.

Conclusion

Verdict: True
The claim that "Election results are preliminary and not final on Election Night" is accurate. Both the EAC and CRS confirm that the results reported on Election Night are unofficial and subject to further verification and certification. This understanding is essential for voters to avoid misconceptions about the electoral process and the timing of official results.

Sources

1. Election Results, Canvass, and Certification | U.S. Election Assistance Commission
2. Federal Election Results: Frequently Asked Questions
3. Federal Election Results: Frequently Asked Questions - CRS Reports
4. Election results and voting information
5. Election Night Reporting (ENR) Systems
6. Election Day guide: What you need to know