Election Day has officially begun on Tuesday, with initial votes counted and results anticipated throughout the night and into Wednesday.

Former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris have dedicated months campaigning nationwide, presenting their strategies on important matters such as inflation, the economy, issues at the Southern border, abortion rights, and more.

This presidential race has been characterized by some astonishing and unprecedented events. Trump survived two assassination attempts, including a tragic shooting at a summer rally that resulted in the death of attendee Corey Comperatore. Meanwhile, President Joe Biden made history by being the first sitting president in years to forgo reelection after a poor debate, making room for Harris.

The chaotic environment has resulted in extremely close polling figures. According to the Real Clear Politics average of national polls, Trump leads Harris by just 0.1 percentage point, a margin that falls within the error range of the surveys.

At midnight, the small New Hampshire community of Dixville Notch highlighted the national divide as voters cast three votes for each candidate.

As voters across the nation make their choices, stay updated with live coverage of the 2024 presidential election on YSL News Network and return here for the latest results.

Expected Legal Challenges and Delays

Both Democratic and Republican parties anticipate legal disputes concerning voter registration, mail-in ballots, and overseas voting due to the overwhelmingly tight race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump. Election officials remain vigilant about potential equipment malfunctions and software glitches that have previously caused delays, along with threats of violence that have impacted the electoral process.

Trump has expressed reluctance to accept the results of Tuesday’s voting, claiming that only widespread voter fraud could account for a potential loss, especially from non-citizen voters. Live updates on any Election Day issues can be found here.

Poll Standings for Harris and Trump

With Election Day 2024 underway, Harris and Trump are nearly tied in the polls. The Real Clear Politics average indicates Trump has a slim lead of 0.1 percentage point over Harris, which is again within the margin of error.

In key battleground states, both candidates are closely matched. For instance, in Wisconsin, Harris has a slight edge over Trump, leading by 0.4 percentage points based on Real Clear Politics averages.

– Marina Pitofsky

Candidates’ Stances on Major Issues

While Harris and Trump have differing plans to tackle the nation’s biggest challenges, both candidates have committed to addressing inflation, reducing taxes, and supporting Israel in its conflict against Hamas. They have also agreed on eliminating federal taxes on tips.

Nonetheless, their approaches to major issues like climate change, reproductive rights, and gun control are significantly different.

If you’re still undecided between the two candidates, check YSL News’s voter guide for their viewpoints on key issues, expressed in their own words.

– Rachel Barber

Poll Closing Times

On November 5, polling hours will vary across the country.

Most states will allow voting from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. However, some areas in Vermont opened as early as 5 a.m., and polls in New York will remain open as late as 9 p.m. Be sure to check with your state or local election office to confirm the voting hours specific to your area.

YSL News’s Voter Guide provides comprehensive information on how to ensure your vote counts in this year’s election.

– Rachel Barber