When do polls close

The Great Poll Caper: When Are the Ballots Locked Up?

Get the scoop on when polls close across key swing states for the 2024 election! Don't get left in the dust!

As November 5, 2024, approaches, the excitement of Election Day is palpable. Millions of eager voters are preparing to cast their ballots, but there's one vital detail everyone must keep track of: when do the polls close? This year, swing states are poised to play a crucial role in determining the next president, delivering the much-coveted Electoral College votes needed for a candidate to hit that magic number of 270. With Georgia kicking things off by closing its polls at 7pm ET, and the likes of Hawaii and Alaska holding onto ballots until midnight ET, every minute counts! The timeline of state poll closing times has become an essential guide for voters. With over three-quarters of eligible Americans voting early or arriving at polling places on the day itself, keeping track of when the polls close is crucial. After all, the Associated Press won’t make any calls until all the ballots are in — and we all know what happens when you miss the deadline; it’s a ride home with your vote left hanging in the balance!

Each state comes with its own unique timings. While Vermont voters can keep casting their votes until 7 p.m., states like Arizona and Michigan will keep their polls open until 8 p.m. Meanwhile, those in the mountainous regions of Colorado have an extra hour, with polls closing at 9 p.m. ET. Keeping track of time is essential for those planning to show up after work, so be sure to set an alarm — or risk the wrath of a ticking clock as your ballot goes uncast! As we gear up for the big day, don’t forget that timing is everything! Did you know that historically, voter turnout tends to spike in the last hour before polls close? It’s a mad dash to the finish line and, in many cases, polling places see massive lines as people scramble to make their voices heard. And here's a fun fact: In 2020, more than 159 million Americans voted, leading to the highest voter turnout in over a century! This cycle promises to be no different as enthusiasm surges across the nation. So mark your calendars and plan your strategy. Stay informed about your state's closing times, and make sure to share this knowledge with friends and family — because nothing feels quite so satisfying as knowing you're not the only one rushing to the voting booth! Embrace your civic duty and let your voice be counted while keeping an eye on the clock; the polls await!