Allie Schroeder

State College

In our charged political climate, many voters question election security. Each state has unique election codes, shaped by Federal statutes. Pennsylvania laws ensure a safe, secure, fair process, so citizens know candidates elected represent the electorate’s voice. But it may take a few days after Nov. 5!

Election Day: Mail-in Ballot Processing

Mail-in ballots are opened starting at 7 a.m. on Election Day, and analyzed for security. Candidates/parties may appoint representatives to supervise.

Election Day: In-Person Voting

Polling places, open until 8 p.m., are run by non-partisan, trained poll workers who sign oaths. Votes are tallied by ballot scanning machines with auditing capability, providing a paper trail.

Election Day: Unofficial Results

The first ballot count may only include mail-in and absentee on election night. Further results can take three to seven days. Military and overseas ballots are accepted through Nov. 12.

County Canvass: Post-Election Day

Counties process overseas ballots, provisional ballots and write-in votes. Most results are reported to the State seven days after the election.

Election Certification

Official results are certified within two weeks following the election. Recounts or challenges must be answered by election officials before certification. All processes are open to observers.

Rest assured, these processes work together so elections truly represent the people, in whom the power is vested. It’s clear the 2024 election will be hotly contested. As Pennsylvanians, we must be patient, knowing the processes our government put in place, in good faith, will uphold our democracy.

For more information: www.pa.gov/en/agencies/dos/newsroom/covering-pennsylvania-elections-101.html