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How and when are election results finalized? (2022)
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Election results are finalized through processes called canvassing and certification. Canvassing generally refers to how state and local officials confirm the validity of ballots cast in an election. Certification is the process authorities use to formalize the election results based on the canvass. However, some states, localities, and commentators use the terms interchangeably to describe the entire process of counting ballots and formalizing results.[1]
Election result certification deadlines are generally fixed by state law. Certification deadlines for the 2022 election are as follows:
- The certification deadlines in four states are within one week of the election.
- In 23 states and the District of Columbia, the certification deadlines are between November 16 and November 30.
- In 18 states, the certification deadlines are in December.
- Five states (Hawaii, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and Tennessee) do not have fixed deadlines for results certification.
What about recounts? A recount is a process by which votes cast in an election are re-tabulated to verify the accuracy of the original results. In the event that a recount occurs, the effects of the election are delayed until the recount is resolved. Recount laws vary by state, but the two most common types of recounts are automatically triggered and requested. In the 2022 election cycle, 28 states and the District of Columbia had laws providing for automatically triggered recounts within a certain margin of victory. In 43 states and the District of Columbia, candidates, political parties, and voters (varies by state) could request a recount. Click here to read about recount laws and procedures in the 50 states.
Election result certification dates, 2022
The chart below shows state election result certification deadlines for the November 8, 2022, general election. A longer bar indicates a date further from the date of the general election.[2][3]
To read the statutory requirements for results certification by state, click here.
See also
Footnotes
- ↑ National Conference of State Legislatures, "Canvass, Certification and Contested Election Deadlines and Voter Intent Laws," accessed October 12, 2022
- ↑ This information was compiled by Ballotpedia staffers; specific sources include state statutes, election administration manuals, election calendars, and email inquiries. Sources are available here.
- ↑ National Conference of State Legislatures, "Canvass, Certification and Contested Election Deadlines and Voter Intent Laws," accessed October 12, 2022
