What happens after Election Day in the Electoral College process?
After Election Day, states certify results, electors meet in December to cast official votes, Congress counts the votes in January, and the winner is inaugurated on January 20.
The Electoral College process involves several steps after Election Day. First, each state counts and certifies its popular vote results. Federal law sets a 'safe harbor' deadline - if a state certifies its results by that date (typically five to six weeks after Election Day), Congress must accept those results.
In December, the winning slate of electors in each state meets in their state capital to cast the official Electoral College votes. For 2028, this will occur in mid-December 2028. Electors cast separate ballots for president and vice president, which are sealed and sent to Congress.
In early January 2029, Congress meets in a joint session to count the Electoral College votes. The Vice President presides. If any state's votes are challenged, both chambers vote separately on whether to accept the challenge. After counting, the president of the Senate declares the winner.
The inauguration follows on January 20, 2029. Between Election Day and Inauguration Day, the president-elect conducts a formal transition of power, selecting cabinet nominees, building staff, and preparing to assume the responsibilities of the office.
Related questions
What is the 'safe harbor' deadline?
Who certifies election results?
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Related explainers
Each state gets electoral votes equal to its congressional seats. A candidate needs 270 of 538 to win. Voters choose slates of electors who then cast the official votes in December.
The 2028 presidential inauguration is January 20, 2029. The 20th Amendment fixed this date, and the winner of the November 2028 election will be sworn in as the 48th President.
270 out of 538. A candidate must win a majority of electoral votes - at least 270 - to be elected president. If no one reaches 270, the House of Representatives decides.
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