For certain contests, the AP provides an estimated “expected vote” percentage, which is the portion of the vote that has been counted out of what the AP estimates will be the total number of certified votes, including votes cast on election day and in advance, through early or mail-in voting. This calculation is based on several factors, including the total votes cast in previous elections, changes in population, voter registration figures and the competitiveness of the current election. The percentage changes as election officials report additional results and if the AP learns more about the number of votes cast. The “expected vote” percentage replaces the “precincts reporting” percentage used in years past and is considered a more consistent and reliable measurement to track the progress of the vote count.
In this weekly political show, national political anchor Errol Louis takes a look at developments from the campaign trail and dives into real-world issues motivating voters.
