Q&A: What we can expect as votes are counted

As we await for the results of the 2020 election, we checked in with Stephanie Singer, a data scientist with PSU’s Hatfield School of Government, to learn a little more about what to expect as the week progresses.

What are the best places for people to look for information as vote counting continues?

Each state, as well as the District of Columbia and the five territories, has a Board of Elections that is the primary source for election results.

It seems like many votes will be counted by the end of Wednesday, but how long could it take to get a final election result?

The deadlines for the final certification of results vary, so the answer depends on the individual state. The National Conference of State Legislatures has collected this information.

In order for either candidate to secure 270 electoral college votes, Pennsylvania could be the key. Both parties claim victory is possible. What insight can you offer into the state and its possibilities?

Pennsylvania is a great case study for the importance of local elections. Even if all you care about is the presidency, notice that the outcome — who gets to vote, and how — has already been affected by choices made by state representatives, state senators, governors and county commissioners over many years.  All of these people are elected in contests that are largely ignored by the media and the general public.

Anything else we need to watch for?

Your sanity! Escape the news cycle if you can. I find hiking — with my phone turned off — to be relaxing.