Provisional ballots can take multiple days to be counted after an election due to the number of ballots cast and the time it takes to verify a voter’s eligibility.
In the weeks before the Nov. 5 presidential election, Google Trends data showed a spike in searches about provisional ballots. A provisional ballot is a way for states to ensure all voters are given a chance to cast a ballot even if their eligibility to vote on Election Day is uncertain.
But some people on social media who were given provisional ballots when they tried to vote on or before Election Day are questioning whether they are actually going to be counted and when.
VERIFY reader Sean sent us an email asking if provisional ballots are typically counted after Election Day.
THE QUESTION
Are provisional ballots counted after Election Day?
THE SOURCES
THE ANSWER
Yes, provisional ballots can be counted after Election Day.
WHAT WE FOUND
Provisional ballots cast on …
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