Citizens in all 50 states are set to exercise their right to vote following a fiercely competitive US electoral campaign, which will culminate in either Donald Trump or Kamala Harris assuming the presidency.
In the final hours leading up to the election, both candidates have delivered their last appeals. “The momentum is in our favor,” Ms Harris proclaimed to a crowd in Philadelphia that echoed back, “We will prevail”.
“This evening, we conclude as we commenced: with hopefulness, enthusiasm, and happiness,” she remarked, basking in the backing of renowned personalities on the day including Katy Perry, Lady Gaga, and Jon Bon Jovi.
Latest updates on the US election
Conversely, Mr Trump concluded his campaign in Michigan, reiterating pivotal themes concerning the economy and immigration.
A select few states are pivotal in determining the election’s outcome. Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin hold the crucial electoral votes needed to secure the White House.
In order to be declared president, the victorious candidate must garner at least 270 electoral votes, with each state allotted a varying number of votes.
However, the spotlight has been on Pennsylvania, which holds 19 electoral votes—the highest among all the swing states.
This election cycle has been extraordinary for both candidates, particularly with Mr Trump having endured two assassination attempts and Ms Harris not initially being part of the race.
Katy Perry delivered a performance in Pittsburgh to support Kamala Harris. Pic: AP
For over a year, the race for the 2024 presidency appeared poised for a rematch between Joe Biden and Mr Trump; however, a disastrous televised debate from Mr Biden ultimately compelled him to withdraw from the race.
The Democratic Party’s move to substitute Mr Biden with his vice president altered the landscape of the race and swayed poll figures in favor of Ms Harris—though only marginally.
Numerous polls remain too close to call, and given the significant margin of error, many analysts are hesitant to forecast the eventual outcome.
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In due course, focus will shift to the battleground states, including Georgia, which is set to close its polls at 7pm local time (midnight UK time).
State election officials informed Sky News that results could be available as early as 10pm (3am UK time).
Nonetheless, it may take several days before the US has a conclusive result.
Voters are not merely electing a president; an additional 10 states will conduct referendums related to abortion, half of which are aimed at dismantling existing restrictions.
Guess who you believe will succeed in each swing state, and we will reveal who the president will be if you are correct.
This evening, Sky News will provide the most extensive exit polling and vote-counting data from every state, county, and demographic throughout America, in partnership with NBC.
For further information about Sky News’ coverage, you can find details here.
