Millions of Americans are heading to polling stations today to cast their votes for the 47th President of the United States. The election features former Republican President Donald Trump and Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris.
Polling hours vary by state, with most locations opening between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM and closing around 7:00 PM local time. Approximately 186.5 million Americans are eligible to vote, with many having already taken advantage of early voting options available in numerous states.
Reports indicate that over 78 million registered voters have voted early. In the U.S. electoral system, the candidate with the most votes does not always win; the electoral college, which comprises 538 votes, ultimately decides the outcome. A candidate must secure at least 270 electoral votes to win. California, with 54 electoral votes, leads the nation, while smaller states like Alaska and North Dakota have a minimum of three.
The stakes are significant this election cycle. If Harris wins, she will become the first female president and the first woman of color to lead the White House. Conversely, if Trump prevails, he will be the first president since the 19th century to regain the presidency after losing a bid for re-election and the first from a major party to have a felony conviction.
Key battleground states include Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, which are expected to play crucial roles in determining the election’s outcome.
