Associated Press

Why AP is the Election Oracle (No Crystal Ball Required!)

Ever wondered how the AP calls election winners? Spoiler: It's all about math, not magic!

When it comes to calling election winners, the Associated Press (AP) plays a pivotal role that sets it apart from other news organizations. For over 170 years, AP has been the go-to source for accurate election results, entirely relying on meticulous mathematics and vote counting rather than projections or fancy predictions. Their method is straightforward: they compile the vote results, analyze them, and declare the winners based on hard data. It’s a storied tradition that brings transparency and reliability to the often chaotic world of election night reporting.

On any given election night, AP doesn't just sit back and wait for the results to roll in. With an audacious mission to count votes in nearly 7,000 races, they work tirelessly to deliver updates from the presidential election all the way down to local mayoral contests. AP’s seasoned journalists and editors are deployed across various states, ready to report results swiftly and accurately, while ensuring that the public hears about who’s winning and losing—often before the candidates themselves know the outcome!

A fascinating facet of the AP’s process is the way they handle those nail-biting moments when polls close. With a blend of experience and technology, they can declare winners even in states where polls have just shuttered. David Scott, a key player in this intricate operation, highlights an interesting phenomenon known as the “red mirage.” This reflects the reality where early voting can skew perceived outcomes, but thanks to AP’s rigorous tracking of data, they provide clarity on election results much quicker than you might think.

Not only does the AP have a reputation for accuracy, but its coverage sets the standard for other news organizations as well. They declare winners in nearly 2,000 uncontested races and around 4,500 contested races in the upcoming 2024 general election. So the next time you tune in for election updates, keep in mind: the AP isn’t relying on a crystal ball. Instead, they’re using their legacy of diligence and analysis to bring you the real results!

Interestingly, AP's difference from other organizations showcases how math outshines magic in election reporting. Plus, did you know that in 2020, AP was one of the first to declare Joe Biden the winner of the presidential race? That’s history coded in numbers! Their legacy continues to evolve, making the AP not just a reporter but a trusted oracle of democracy.