US election results: The 2024 US presidential election has become a dramatic showdown between Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump, with both candidates neck and neck for the White House. With early polls closing at 6:00 p.m. ET on Tuesday and final polls closing at 1:00 a.m. ET on Wednesday, initial results are expected on election night . However, with such a close race, it’s possible the final results won’t be known until early Wednesday — or even later if recounts are necessary.

These high-stakes elections officially began in Vermont on November 5, marking the start of nationwide voting. Key states – Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin – are being closely scrutinized. These states, seen as crucial to candidates’ path to the 270 electoral votes needed to secure the presidency, have seen a surge in campaigning and political advertising as both camps work to sway undecided voters.

Betting markets currently give Trump a slight edge, with a 60 percent chance of winning, compared to Harris’ 40 percent. These odds underscore how close the race has been, with both candidates struggling to win over voters in key states. The outcome of the election depends heavily on the results in these battleground regions, as they are the ones who could ultimately decide who occupies the Oval Office.

The climate on Election Day was tense, with concerns about possible political violence leading to heightened security measures, particularly in battleground states like Nevada. Many businesses in Washington, D.C., are bracing for potential unrest after closing their doors, and National Guard units are stationed in several states to keep the peace. Law enforcement and local governments are prepared to respond quickly to any disruptions.

US election results: How to check online

For those following the election closely, real-time updates will be available across major U.S. media outlets, including USA Today, Associated Press and NBC News.

Coverage of the vote count is expected to begin after 5 p.m. EST on November 5 (2:30 a.m. IST on November 6), with the first results coming in soon after.

Viewers can also access live updates through platforms like Google, which offers live trackers dedicated to election results.

Warning from experts

Experts have warned that in the event of very close results, recounts could be triggered, which could delay the official result by several days. Media networks are expected to project winners based on data provided by election analysts, but official results will await confirmation from state and local officials. With possible recounts on the horizon, Americans may have to wait longer before a final winner is declared.

The risk of post-election unrest has led to unprecedented security measures across the country. Many states, particularly those with close races, have prepared for possible confrontations or protests. In addition to closed businesses, the presence of National Guard troops adds a level of security to ensure that voting and counting processes occur peacefully.