As I write, Americans are trudging to the polls to mark ovals on paper, touch screens, use ballot-marking devices, and otherwise record their choices for president, Congress, state legislatures, and a host of other offices and ballot measures. Around 78 million Americans cast votes before Election Day, many by mail. Different systems are used, according to the preference of each state, and rules vary as to when ballots can be counted and how they're recounted if necessary. If that sounds like it adds a level of complexity to tallying votes, you're right. That's why we'll all probably have to be a little patient before the results of this year's election are finalized.
