Associated Press

Why the Associated Press is the Election Whisperer you didn't know you needed!

Ever wondered how the Associated Press knows who won an election before you even grab a snack? Dive into the secrets behind their winning methods!

When it comes to reporting election results, the Associated Press (AP) is a household name that stands out from the crowd. Unlike other media outlets that may make projections, AP sticks to a methodical approach, declaring winners based on solid mathematical assessments. This backbone of numbers ensures a trustworthy source for news organizations, such as NPR, who lean heavily on AP for accurate election reporting. So, when your neighbor starts making wild predictions based on a single, questionable source, you can calmly respond with the AP’s mathematical magic.

But how does the AP manage to declare winners in states that just closed their polls? In areas where one political party has a significant lead in uncontested races, the AP's system kicks into gear. They can make these declarations almost immediately after polls close—like an election night speedrunner! This guarantees that everyone from the everyday voter to the political strategists is informed without delay, and we all know the excitement that an immediate win declaration can stir.

AP’s approach is sometimes described as “a little analog.” They rely on tried-and-true methods, and they aren’t afraid to let their personality shine through their reporting. For instance, during the lead-up to elections, AP journalists engage in face-to-face discussions, share ideas on whiteboards, and strategize over pizza. How’s that for teamwork? Their hardworking team has been in the game for over 170 years, and they promise to deliver results in nearly 7,000 races during every election night, from the presidency down to local elections.

Think that’s impressive? In the 2024 general election, the AP is planning to declare winners in almost 2,000 uncontested races while also keeping tabs on about 4,500 contested races. You might be surprised to learn that the AP has been a reliable indicator of election outcomes since its inception, adapting and evolving to remain at the forefront of the election news game. So the next time you hear an election result, remember – it’s not just numbers, it’s the AP’s meticulous dedication to providing us with the most accurate and timely information available!