Election results timing varies by race and location, but you can expect a mix of quick calls for some contests and slower tallies for others on Election Night. Here’s how it typically plays out and what to watch for right now.

Quick overview

• Some races close early in the evening and yield rapid results, especially statewide races in states with faster ballot counting. Others may remain unsettled for hours or days if mail ballots or late-arriving ballots are involved.

• Local and high-profile statewide contests (e.g., governor races in Virginia or New Jersey, or big-city elections like New York City) often show early indicators within the first few hours after polls close, but final, official results can take longer depending on counting rules and ballot types.

• In states with mail ballots, expect slower final tallies if results hinge on late-arriving ballots or if ballot counting is conducted over multiple days.

What to expect by region (typical patterns)

• Virginia: Polls close earlier in the evening; some results may come in within the first hours, with final results following as absentee ballots are counted.

• New Jersey: Results often begin rolling in within a few hours after polls close, but close races may extend the timeline as mail ballots are tallied.

• New York: Major urban and statewide contests can show early indicators, but final calls might take longer if margins are slim or if mail ballots are involved.

• California: Counting mail-in ballots can extend results for several days if the race is close or if ballot processing spans multiple days.

How to stay informed

• Check live updates from reputable outlets that track poll closing times and early results for your specific state or locality. They typically note when results begin to be reported and when a race is too close to call.

• If you’re in line when polls close, you’re allowed to vote, and some results may still be pending as ballots continue to be counted.

If you share your state or specific races you care about, I can give a more targeted timeline based on the latest reporting for those contests.