ELECTION 2020

A guide to how new polling machines work for Harris County voters.

Houston area political leaders weighed in Tuesday on Democrats in the Texas House of Representatives leaving the state for Washington D.C., in an attempt to block a quorum needed to vote on a Republican-backed bill on election reform.

A deadly Tesla crash near the Woodlands continues to make national headlines and raise questions.

After his official swearing-in at the U.S. Capitol Wednesday, Biden gave his inaugural address to the American people. While the inauguration marked the end of a tremulous election, Biden spoke about unity and the pursuit of the American dream for all. Here are some of the most enduring quotes from Biden’s inaugural address:Biden’s oath to AmericansBefore God and all of you, I give you my word I will always level with you. On the American storyBut the American story depends not in any one of us, not on some of us, but on all of us. And we’ll lead not merely by the example of our power, by the power of our example.

(AP Photo/Patrick Semansky, Pool)HOUSTON – President Joe Biden and Madam Vice President Kamala Harris have officially been inaugurated. Former President Barack Obama offered congratulations to his former VP, tweeting “Congratulations to my friend, President @JoeBiden! This is your time.”Congratulations to my friend, President @JoeBiden! pic.twitter.com/LXzxGnBAfz — Barack Obama (@BarackObama) January 20, 2021Former President Bill Clinton also congratulated the incoming president and vice president ahead of the inauguration. Today is the start of a new chapter & I look forward to our close cooperation!

HOUSTON – After a steady rise in popularity, the social media site Parler disappeared over the course of a weekend. Many media analysts view what happened to the site as a test case for shaping what role big tech may play in policing speech on the internet. Parler was founded in 2018 but exploded in popularity in the run-up to the 2020 election. Laster said she is uncomfortable with large tech companies involved in decisions on what is allowed speech. However, KPRC 2 Legal Analyst Brian Wice said free speech only applies to the government, not private business.

HOUSTON – Late Thursday a growing number of Texas Congressional leaders called for President Donald trump’s ouster. The calls came despite President Trump denouncing the violence at the Capitol and promising a smooth transition of power in a pre-recorded message released Thursday evening. Democratic Congresswoman Sylvia Garcia announced she is co-sponsoring a resolution to impeach President Trump if Vice President Mike Pence and the Cabinet doesn’t invoke the 25th Amendment for his removal. However, newly elected Republican Congressman Troy Nehls, disagreed with his colleagues, saying President Trump will leave office on January 20th. “We’re delighted that one of our very own, former Sheriff Troy Nehls was instrumental in helping many members,” said Lee.

HOUSTON – Since Tuesday, there have been nationwide headlines involving former HPD Captain Mark Aguirre. Aguirre was due to be arraigned Thursday morning but his arraignment was postponed after his attorney informed the court that Aguirre has COVID-19. The Liberty Center is run by conservative activist Steve Hotze, known for spreading conspiracy theories. Dr. Michael Adams, the chair of the political department at Texas Southern University, says social media is a huge factor in conspiracy theories because of digital accessibility and engagement. Adams calls conspiracy theories “gaslighting.” A form of manipulation meant to question your own reality.

HOUSTON – Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick said he supports President Donald Trump’s efforts to identify voter fraud -- and is now offering up to $1 million to encourage and reward people to come forward if they have any instances of voter fraud to report. Those who give information to local law enforcement that leads to an arrest and conviction will get at least $25,000, according to the Patrick’s office. President @realDonaldTrump’s @POTUS pursuit of voter fraud is not only essential to determine the outcome of this election, it is essential to maintain our democracy and restore faith in future elections. Here’s my statement: https://t.co/7pUPJWsd3M#txlege — Dan Patrick (@DanPatrick) November 10, 2020Go here for more information.

Kamala Harris is the first woman, first Black and first South Asian person to become vice president of the United States. Vice President-elect Harris has inspired women to dream and attain it with her historic election win. "I think we have to realize the collective work of the women who came before Kamala have built for this moment. Betts said it will be exciting to see what work Harris will get done while in office. I think that’s what women have been essentially striving for is to be seen on the merits of their work," she said.

HOUSTON – President Donald Trump is not giving up on the historical 2020 election. The Trump campaign is pursuing numerous lawsuits to challenge the results of the election. It looks as if it is very secure for President Biden,” Carder said. After President-Elect Biden was declared victorious Saturday, President Trump announced his legal team would continue to fight in court. If it was a close call or a close vote between Biden and Trump if it were a close call, then certainly.

Joe Biden mounted two previous presidential bids in 1988 and 2008, never making it out of the Democratic primaries. Democratic vice presidential candidate Sen. Joe Biden, D-Del., listens during his stop at Flat Rock Community High School in Flat Rock, Mich., Monday, Sept. 15, 2008. Vice President Joe Biden dances with his wife Jill at the Commander In Chief Ball on inauguration night in Washington, Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009. Vice President Joe Biden, right, talks to President Barack Obama at their election night party Wednesday, Nov. 7, 2012, in Chicago. All rights reserved)Democratic presidential candidate former Vice President Joe Biden visits with C.J.

HOUSTON – There were rallies for both political sides throughout the Houston area on Saturday. While others weren’t quite ready to accept the election results with Joe Biden projected as President-elect. I’m so excited about both President-elect Biden and Vice President-elect Kamala Harris,” said supporter Gerald Womack. In Conroe, thousands came together to show their support for President Donald Trump and echoed his claims of fraud. Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee said she looked forward to working with Biden and hoped the president would agree to a peaceful transition of power.

Tensions grew again when more Trump supporters arrived on the scene and BLM members retreated through the growing crowd. “This election has not been called!” yelled Jake Angeli, a regular at Trump rallies, who stood outside a tabulation center in Phoenix. In recent days, armed protesters have been seen gathered outside tabulation centers, many carrying Trump flags and signs with the hashtag #stopthesteal. Those carrying weapons insist they are keeping the peace. In Detroit, dozens of Trump supporters returned to the streets Friday outside the city’s convention center, where election workers counted ballots.

Just after major news organizations projected that former Vice President Joe Biden beat President Donald Trump, fireworks erupted in Atlanta. Neighbors ran out of their homes in Manhattan and assembled into an unplanned street party, whooping, dancing and high-fiving strangers. In Louisville, Kentucky, BIden supporters gathered on their lawns to toast with champagne. Trump’s supporters have for days been protesting outside of ballot-counting operations, alleging without evidence that the slow-moving results were proof of cheating. Some 75 Trump-supporting protesters had gathered Saturday morning outside the election tabulation center in downtown Phoenix, where the counting remains underway.

Joe Biden will defeat President Donald Trump to win the presidency, NBC News projected. The former vice president amassed 273 Electoral College votes after winning Pennsylvania’s 20 electors, according to NBC News, surpassing the 270 needed to win the White House and defeat President Donald Trump. After receiving news of his projected win, Biden, running mate Sen. Kamala Harris and President Donald Trump took to Twitter to share their reactions to the news. The work ahead of us will be hard, but I promise you this: I will be a President for all Americans — whether you voted for me or not. pic.twitter.com/moA9qhmjn8 — Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) November 7, 2020

Joe Biden defeated President Donald Trump to win the presidency, NBC News projected. The former vice president amassed 273 Electoral College votes after winning Pennsylvania’s 20 electors, according to NBC News, surpassing the 270 needed to win the White House and defeat President Donald Trump. Full statement from former vice president Joe Biden:"I am honored and humbled by the trust the American people have placed in me and in Vice President-elect Harris. "Beginning Monday, our campaign will start prosecuting our case in court to ensure election laws are fully upheld and the rightful winner is seated. It remains shocking that the Biden campaign refuses to agree with this basic principle and wants ballots counted even if they are fraudulent, manufactured, or cast by ineligible or deceased voters.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A handful of states remained in play Friday in the tightly contested U.S. presidential race. The initial margins in those races were 137 votes, 215 votes and 261 votes. Election officials in the state said they would release more results Saturday at noon EST. But it was unclear if that figure took into account the overestimated number of ballots by Clark County election officials. As long as those ballots are postmarked by Nov. 3, state election officials have until Nov. 12 to count them.

(Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (2020 Getty Images)Trump supporters gather for a demonstration outside the TCF Center on Nov. 6, 2020 in Detroit. (Photo by John Moore/Getty Images) (2020 Getty Images)Trump supporters gather for a demonstration outside the TCF Center on Nov. 6, 2020 in Detroit. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images) (2020 Getty Images)Supporters of President Trump hold signs and chant slogans during a protest outside the Philadelphia Convention Center. (Photo by Chris McGrath/Getty Images) (2020 Getty Images)Supporters of President Trump yell at a counter protester at the Maricopa County Elections Department office on Nov. 6, 2020 in Phoenix. (Photo by Megan Varner/Getty Images) (2020 Getty Images)

It’s been exhausting waiting for the results of the 2020 election to come in, but there has been one good thing that has come out of all this: The memes. Specifically, the memes about Nevada. So without further ado, here are the best memes floating around the internet -- that will surely give you a much-needed laugh. Nevada: pic.twitter.com/XldmGVrex6 — 🧞‍♂️ (@JafarTheGenie_) November 5, 2020This is how Nevada counts ballots pic.twitter.com/JQFy83B2WV — Max Burns (@themaxburns) November 5, 2020Live footage of Nevada working on those ballots pic.twitter.com/14RrZ2Ce8w — Miss Cuffy, Unstable Genius🥃🔥 (@MissGFYCuffy) November 5, 2020Nevada after counting 113 ballots in one day. pic.twitter.com/JAkgsBNT2p — Erick Fernandez (@ErickFernandez) November 5, 2020And finally...

HOUSTON – Three days after Election Day, people were ready to learn who would be the next president of the United States. “(I’m) a little anxious, and ready for it to get over,” said Bill Morrison. The word “ready” seemed to be very popular at Hermann Park Friday morning. “I’m just ready for the announcement, trying not to be too wrapped up in social media,” said Kaneisha Robinson. “It is challenging not to know what’s going on, but I’m ready for it to be over with,” said Shaughn John.

Using the KPRC 2 Trust Index, we will review questionable claims being made on social media. Trewinnard, a member of the international team that helped set up our Trust Index System, has monitored elections from all over the world. “It doesn’t really change the minds of the people who’ve already believed it. Our Trust Index team flagged what’s been called the “Sharpiegate” claim as false. What is the Trust Index?

A handful of pivotal states remained in play Thursday in the tightly contested U.S. presidential race. But there are outstanding ballots left to be counted in the coming days. North CarolinaThe situationWith ballots left to count, the race is too early to call. As long as those ballots are postmarked by Nov. 3, state election officials have until Nov. 12 to count them. And when it comes to mail ballots, Biden was outperforming Trump.

We found the following 11 photos from Getty Images, and we thought they were worth a share. (Getty Images)Pierre, a 5-year-old basset hound, apparently is a loyal fan of then-President Johnson -- and was happy to pose with a campaign button. (Getty Images)A dog wears a campaign sticker for Democratic presidential candidate and former Vice President Joe Biden during a campaign stop at the Buttercup diner on March 3, 2020 in Oakland, California. This photo was taken in front of the White House as the pups wore campaign buttons for Lyndon B. Johnson for President. (Getty Images)In Honolulu, Hawaiian women are seen casting their votes during a presidential election -- and even a dog doesn't dare peek.

There’s no doubt that Election Day this year was one for the books. After record-setting early voting, people still showed up in droves on Election Day to cast their ballot. Below are 10 photos -- all from Getty Images -- that give an indication of how different this Election Day looked. (2020 Getty Images)Protesters march through the streets around Black Lives Matter Plaza on Nov. 3 in Washington DC. (2020 Getty Images)Did you feel things were different this year?

While most Americans continued awaiting the presidential election results, history was silently being made in Delaware. Sarah McBride, 30, made history on election night by becoming the first openly transgender person to be elected to the state Senate in U.S. history. “I hope tonight shows an LGBTQ kid that our democracy is big enough for them, too,” McBride tweeted Tuesday night after the election was called. McBride is a former spokesperson for the LGBTQ advocacy group Human Rights Campaign and also became the first trans person to speak at a major political convention. McBride will represent parts of Bellefonte, Claymont and Wilmington, the state’s largest city.

The world is watching as millions of Americans cast their ballots for the next president on Tuesday. “In the American system, the last vote counts, and maybe the last vote changes the result," Borrell told Spanish National Television. "The battle over the legitimacy of the result — whatever it will look like — has now begun,” said the German defense minister, Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer. “Africa used to learn American democracy, America is now learning African democracy,” tweeted Nigerian Sen. Shehu Sani, reflecting a common view from some on a continent long used to troubled elections and U.S. criticism of them. ___AP journalists around the world contributed to this story.

Celebrities -- they’re just like us. Well, not really, but they definitely vote, and they definitely post selfies on Election Day with their “I Voted” sticker. Here are a few celebs who have let social media know they are exercising their constitutional right to have their voice heard. Laura DernSnoop DoggJessica AlbaNatalie PortmanJennifer LopezCharlize TheronBlake Lively and Ryan ReynoldsDemi LovatoDrew BarrymoreLizzoMariah CareyKerry WashingtonAshlee Simpson RossReese WitherspoonHalle BerryNick JonasSelena GomezBrittany SnowJimmy FallonJoe Jonas

Most Trump voters say he has changed Washington for the better; most Biden voters say he's changed it for the worse. About half of Trump voters called the economy and jobs the top issue facing the nation, while only 1 in 10 Biden voters named it most important. A majority of Biden voters — about 6 in 10 — said the pandemic was the most important issue, more than twice the share of Trump voters. Trump voters were more likely than Biden voters to say they agreed with their candidate all or most of the time, 81% versus 74%. Biden voters were somewhat more likely than Trump voters to say they’ve felt the impact in at least one of those ways, 73% to 62%.

Political teams across Graham Media Group are watching “battleground” races in Texas, Florida, Michigan and Virginia. TEXASThe entire state of Texas itself is something of a battleground with Democrats holding onto a longshot hope of turning the long-red state blue. Here’s a report from KPRC2 in Houston and KSAT in San Antonio on competitive districts in the Lone Star state:Follow all Texas results on Click2Houston and KSAT.com. Follow all Florida results on News4Jax, ClickOrlando and Local 10 (Miami). Follow Virginia results on WSLS.com.

Answer: First and foremost, NBC News will not call a race until the Decision Desk is at least 99.5 percent confident of the winner. On Election Night, the Decision Desk will make the following calls, according to NBC News:Too Early To Call: This characterization covers two scenarios. Projected Winner: NBC News has made a projection that a candidate will win the race. According to NBC, vote count analysts ensure accuracy by inspecting results and looking for irregularities or inconsistencies with past voting behavior. Once the Decision Desk is at least 99.5 percent confident in a projection, NBC News will call the race.

Voters wait to cast their votes on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020, at the Minneapolis College of Art and Design in Minneapolis. On this day, millions of Americans will cast their votes, deciding who will become the next president of the United States. For many Americans, 2020 marks a first in their own personal history books as they head to the polls for the first time. Election Day guide: Everything you need to know before heading to the polls Nov. 3While Election Day may look a bit different this year due to the pandemic, Americans are still hitting the polls and casting their ballots, especially during a time of uncertainty. Check out the gallery above to see what Election Day looked like across the country.

Here’s what voting across the nation looks like today -- one of the most historic election days in recent history. (2020 Getty Images)Would-be voters learn they are not registered at their precinct at the O.P. (2020 Getty Images)Voters cast their ballot at The Orpheum Theater on Nov. 3 in Madison, Wisconsin. (2020 Getty Images)Voters stand in ballot boxes at the Kentucky Exposition Center on Nov. 3 in Louisville, Kentucky. (2020 Getty Images)

Here are things to know for Tuesday, Nov. 3:1. Election Day guide: Everything you need to know before heading to the polls Nov. 3The Harris County Clerk has set up a “frequently asked questions” section on HarrisVotes.com where you can get lots of answers to common voting questions. Instead of 10 drive-thru locations, the Toyota Center will be the only drive-thru voting center available in Harris County on Election Day because of the new order. Here are some Election Day freebies, discounts and deals to look out forBesides deciding on the next president, voting has some other perks. You may want to take advantage of some of those Election Day deals Tuesday.

Some people think that celebrities should stay out of politics, but that hasn’t stopped these famous people from throwing their support behind Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden or current President Donald Trump. Celebs supporting Trump:Kirstie AlleyThe outspoken actress tweeted a couple weeks ago that she was supporting the incumbent president in the upcoming election. Celebrities supporting Biden:Taylor SwiftAfter staying silent about who she was voting for in the 2016 election, Swift has made it very known that she is supporting Biden in this year’s race. Chris EvansCaptain America himself has been working around the clock, it seems, to get people motivated to get out the vote this election. He has critiqued the current administration on Twitter and thrown his support behind Biden.

It doesn’t matter who or what you’re voting for in the 2020 election, if anything is clear, it’s that Americans are STRESSED about the results.

As Election Day finally arrives it is going to be easy to feel overwhelmed by the volume of information being aimed at every single voter in the country. As polls open here are five things to watch for on Election Day 2020:Many, many reports, photos, and videos of long lines. You can also share what you are seeing with the Trust Index team and we’ll get to work on it. Use the Trust Index form to send it to trained fact-checkers for review and possible debunking on a newscast or online. The Trust Index team fact checks questionable information circulating on social media and in our communities.

We understand documenting that you’ve voted is important to a lot of people — especially when you get that “I Voted” sticker. You should be proud of yourself for casting your vote, but know that there are strict rules in some places when it comes to taking pictures at polling places. Here in Texas, we have some of the stricter restrictions concerning photos while voting, according to the Texas Secretary of State website. And if you’re thinking of going old school and taking an actual camera, the same restrictions apply there. When in doubt, just wait until you’re back in your car to snap that “I Voted” sticker selfie.

We’ve heard of people out in droves who voted early or sent a mail-in ballot. Lines at early-voting precincts have had some crowds waiting hours -- but to cast a ballot, many find the time well-spent. Pflughoeft was fascinated with politics and determined to vote in the 2020 General Election, so she mailed in her ballot early. All the other states have various stipulations as to whether they will allow the ballot of a deceased person to count, such as when the person died and when the death is learned. However, if past elections are any indication, votes from people who pass away before Election Day generally don’t have an impact on the results, according USA Today.

As part of our Ask 2 series, the newsroom will answer your questions about all things Houston. Question: Can I turn in my ballot-by-mail at NRG on Monday and on Election Day? According to the Harris County Clerk’s Office, you can return your completed ballot-by-mail in person at NRG at any time during regular poll hours and Election Day. Only the voter named on their ballot can drop it off at NRG. If you do not present an acceptable form of ID, you can complete a reasonable impediment declaration form.

HOUSTON – On Sunday, about 100 County Clerk’s Office staff members worked to process about 400 presiding election judges. We have over 800 Election Day voting centers,” Harris County Clerk Chris Hollins said. Workers made sure election judges had their list of voters for each precinct and other items they need to process voters on Election Day. “We give them essentially the control boards that they’ll be using to check in voters on election days, but we don’t have those machines yet. He said there will be over 11,000 workers on Election Day to make sure all votes get counted.

A rejection of the votes would constitute a monumental disenfranchisement of voters — drive-thru ballots account for about 10% of all in-person ballots cast during early voting in Harris County. The clerk’s filing with the Supreme Court in the earlier lawsuit also said the Texas secretary of state’s office had approved of drive-thru voting. Since the first Republican challenge to drive-thru voting was filed on Oct. 12, the Texas secretary of state and Gov. Greg Abbott had both ignored requests from reporters and Harris County officials to clarify their positions on whether the process was legal. The county clerk’s office countered that the first challenge to drive-thru voting had already been denied, and the second filing came much too late.

FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas – Fort Bend County clinched the second-highest early voter turnout rate among Texas' most populous urban counties, according to data from the Secretary of State’s office. Additionally, the early-voting turnout in Fort Bend County has surpassed the county’s total voting turnout for the 2016 election. Collin County is the only urban Texas county with a higher early voting turnout rate than Fort Bend County. “Our neighbors, friends, and family members in Fort Bend County are excited about participating in this historic election and continue to lead the State,” Fort Bend County Judge KP George said in a statement. Fort Bend County County polling locations will remain open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day.

His lead in the polls against opponent MJ Hegar is between 5 & 10 percentage points, depending on which poll you look at, but Senator John Cornyn (R) is not breathing easier. “If you run for political office and you feel comfortable before an election, you’re doing something wrong,” he said. On this week’s Houston Newsmakers with Khambrel Marshall, Senator Cornyn offers up thoughts on a number of issues. Watch Houston Newsmakers Sundays at 10:30am. Senator John Cornyn (R), Texas· Website: https://www.cornyn.senate.gov/· Twitter: @johncornynCarroll Robinson, ESQ, Professor, Barbara Jordan-Mickey Leland School of Public Affairs, Texas Southern University Founder· Website: https://bit.ly/31NPoey· Twitter: @TexasSouthernPaul Simpson, Former Harris County GOP Chair,· Contact: https://bit.ly/2JcmUVf· Twitter: @mcginnislaw

While Democrats are hungry for signs that key parts of their coalition — young voters, Black voters, new voters — are engaged, comparisons to 2016 are difficult. In North Carolina, they are 21% of both all early voters and all registered voters. In Georgia, they make up 30% of the early vote and 32% of registered voters. John Couvillon, a Republican pollster who tracks the early vote, said the Trump campaign is being too dismissive. “I heard the same kind of attitude in 2008, when Republicans were in denial about the impressive early vote turnout Obama was generating,” Couvillon said.

HOUSTON – Friday is the last day of early voting in Harris County. As of midnight, the county clerk tweeted that 1.3 million people in Harris County had cast their ballots early. Eight locations in Harris County will be open 24 hours, including at the Victory Worship Center in North Harris County, where the county clerk shared a video of people waiting in line at midnight. #HarrisVotes pic.twitter.com/xuGnZet1ou — Harris County Clerk (@HarrisVotes) October 30, 2020NRG Arena is also a 24-hour polling location, where there was a drive-in concert Thursday night. All polling locations in Harris County were open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday.

Is there a racial divide when it comes to voting wait times at precincts? In 2016, white voters waited an average of 10 minutes, according to a survey of voters conducted by the Bipartisan Policy Center and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. In comparison, Black voters waited an average of 16 minutes and Latino voters were in line an average of 13 minutes, according to the survey. During the 2018 election, Black voters waited an average of 11.5 minutes, Latino voters an average of 11.7 minutes and white voters an average of 8.8 minutes, according to the Bipartisan Policy Center. In precincts with 90% or more non-white voters, the average wait time was 32.4 minutes and the median was 13.3 minutes.

Whether you are a supporter of President Donald Trump, Democratic presidential nominee Joe Biden or someone else, there’s no doubt the two main candidates have led quite different lives. We see pictures nearly every day of the nominees on the road, aiming to gain more votes through rallies and small gatherings. However, we thought it might be interesting to take a peek into what their lives looked like in earlier years. All photos below are copyright Getty Images.

If you find yourself confused come Election Day (or at early voting), you can always ask a poll worker your questions. You’ll mark your ballot by hand with a marker that cannot be erased, or pen, and place your finished ballot in a ballot box. When it comes to optical scan voting systems, voters mark their choices on pre-printed ballots by either connecting “arrows” or filling in “bubbles” next to the candidates' names. “The paper ballot is then inserted into an electronic ballot counter, which then counts the marked “bubbles” or “arrows” on each ballot and automatically computes the totals for each candidate and/or issue,” the state voting website said. and if you really want to get into some more nitty gritty details, we’ll leave you with these: “The state of Texas has selected and certified voting systems from three different vendors: Election Systems & Software (ES&S), Hart InterCivic, and Premier Election Solutions (formerly Diebold, Inc.).

That is going to produce results coming in at very different times -- perhaps days or even weeks after Election Day. Processing early ballotsIn some places, election officials can begin processing ballots weeks before Election Day. So on Nov. 3, Election Day, officials will have to run an in-person election while also working through the unprecedented number of mail-in votes. Republicans, including Trump's campaign, have been filing lawsuits to stop election officials from counting ballots that are delivered after Election Day. Also, Pennsylvania doesn’t allow early processing of mail-in ballots, further complicating matters.

Since the Electoral College was established as the means of electing a president, it hasn’t been often when a president won the election without winning the popular vote. Despite the fact that Jackson had more electoral votes and won the popular vote, the House voted Adams as President. Cleveland ended up winning the popular vote by more than 90,000 votes, but Harrison won the electoral vote, 233-168. That gave Bush a 271-266 win in the electoral vote, even though Gore won the popular vote by roughly 500,000 more votes. But the electoral vote was a completely different matter, with Trump earning 304 votes to Clinton’s 227.

Use the survey below to predict the outcome of the U.S. Presidential election, plus the race for Senate and House. As results come in, we’ll report back on the wisdom of the crowd and share your insights on the election. After we learn the outcome, we’ll search back through the predictions and shout out the prognosticators who got things right. You can also see some early results on how people feel the election will turnout. One small reminder: We’re looking for predictions, not how you want the election to go.

We don’t need to tell you that 2020 has been an epic election year. If you’ve kept an eye on social media to stay up to date on all the election happenings, you’ve likely been watching the feeds of President Donald Trump and Democratic Presidential nominee Joe Biden. They both address issues, as well as, at times, take jabs at one another. Regardless, it’s one of the best ways to stay up to date on what’s happening with both nominees. If you want to keep an eye on the latest tweets from both Trump and Biden, we’ve got them for you right here.

With less than two weeks before one of the biggest Election Days in history, Republican incumbent nominee, President Donald Trump, and Democratic nominee and former vice president Joe Biden met at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, for the second and final presidential debate. The debate, which appeared to be a little more constructive than the last, was moderated by Kristen Welker of NBC News. What did you think of responses and ideas presented by Biden and Trump? Let us know your reaction by clicking on an emoji below each statement that was made.

As part of our Ask 2 series, the newsroom will answer your questions about all things Houston. Question: If I reside and am registered to vote in Harris County, can I vote in another county? Answer: According to VoteTexas.Gov, registered and eligible voters may vote at any early voting location located in the county of residence. To find polling places in your county, log in on to the Texas Electionet Administration System online then click “11/03/2020--2020 NOVEMBER 3RD GENERAL ELECTION” on the right under the Upcoming Elections window. By doing so, you will be provided with a list of all election day and early voting polling places within your county and their hours of operation.

MISSOURI CITY, Texas – Early voting was going smoother in Fort Bend County Wednesday, a day after issues caused major delays. Fort Bend County residents headed to the polls for the second day of early voting and people were pleased. County Judge KP George said the wrong date was in the system and he has ordered a full investigation. George also extended voting hours until 7 p.m. through Saturday this week. KPRC2 received complaints about the voting location at Hightower High School saying the elderly were forced to walk up high stairs to vote.

Question: I live in Harris County. Do I have to go to NRG Stadium to submit my ballot? Greg Abbott’s order limiting drop-off locations to one per county, Harris County residents may only drop off their mail-in ballots at NRG Park. [RELATED: Court reinstates Texas limit on ballot drop-off locations]The exact drop-off location is Harris County Election Headquarters at NRG Arena – Hall D.To help Harris County voters get their counted, Lyft has teamed up with the ‘More Than A Vote’ Coalition to offer free rides, up to $15, to NRG Stadium. [RELATED: Lyft to offer free rides to NRG to drop off mail-in ballots]Ballots can also be mailed to the return address provided with appropriate postage affixed.

As part of our Ask 2 series, the newsroom will answer your questions about all things Houston. Question: If drive-thru voting is found to be illegal, will those votes still be counted? Answer: According to the lawsuit presented by the Republican Party of Texas, all votes will be cast and counted until drive-thru voting potentially comes to a halt. [RELATED: Texas GOP files suit to stop drive-thru voting in Harris County]“Unless stopped, each of these instances of illegal voting will cast a cloud over the results of the General Election, as illegal votes will be cast and counted in direct violation of the Texas Election Code,” the lawsuit states. According to Harris County Clerk Chris Hollins, drive-thru voting which is available to all county residents who want to vote from their vehicle is separate from curbside voting which is reserved for voters with disabilities, including illness.

HOUSTON – As we get closer to Election day on November 3rd, now is the time to make sure you’re familiar with your county’s polling procedures. The bigger counties in our area are using voting centers now, which means you will have more options on election day. But no matter which county you live in, it’s best to look up your polling choices through your county clerk’s office, in case locations have changed since the last time you voted. We’ve compiled a list of polling locations & sample ballots by county. Harris CountyPolling locationsSample ballotFt. Bend CountyPolling locationsSample ballotsBrazoria CountyPolling locationsSample ballotChambers CountyPolling locationsSample ballots by precinctGalveston CountyPolling locationsSample ballot accessGrimes CountyPolling locationsSample ballotLiberty CountyPolling locationsSample ballotMatagorda CountyPolling locations & sample ballotsMontgomery CountyPolling locationsSample ballotPolk CountyPolling locationsSample ballotSan JacintoPolling locationsSample ballotsWaller CountyPolling locationsSample ballotsWharton CountyPolling locationsSample ballots

Have you ever wondered why is it that one candidate can win the popular vote but another wins the electoral vote, and thus, the presidency? Four candidates in history have won a majority of the popular vote only to be denied the presidency by the Electoral College. That includes Hillary Clinton, who had the largest popular vote margin of any losing presidential candidate in U.S. history. Graphic shows scenario in which a presidential candidate can win the popular vote but lose the election. It would take a constitutional amendment to abolish the Electoral College -- an unlikely move because of how difficult it is to pass and ratify constitutional changes.

Wednesday night’s vice presidential debate between current Vice President Mike Pence and Sen. Kamala Harris was quite different than the debate we saw between President Donald Trump and Joe Biden. We watched Pence and Harris take on some major issues, and really, we just want to know from you: What’s your take? How do you think it went? We’d love to hear your answer to the following questions.

KPRC 2 anchor Lauren Freeman give a preview of the upcoming vice presidential debate. If you need help with the Public File, call (713) 778-4745.

Question: How much postage is needed to send my mail-in ballot? According to the USPS, completed ballots are classified as First-Class Mail and require proper postage to help ensure timely processing and delivery. Voters are responsible for affixing the appropriate postage on their return ballot envelope. According to Texas Tribune, postage for mail-in ballots will vary by the county due to differences in the ballot style and size. The First-Class Mail postage rate for a standard-sized, rectangular envelope starts at $0.55.

HOUSTON – The issues are on politicians' minds right now, from COVID-19 and unemployment to education, racial relations, health care and climate change. But what’s on your mind right now? Share what you want politicians to talk about when they’re trying to get your vote, in the comments below. KPRC 2 wants to report on what your life stories are telling as Election Day approaches. Please include accurate email information, as we could contact you for Decision 2020 election on-air and online coverage.

HOUSTON – There are only five days left to register to vote for the 2020 Presidential Election. These days, Kral spends her time providing voter resources to Texans, such as how to register to vote. Most states allow you to register online.”There are 2,434,341 registered voters in Harris County this year. In Fort Bend County, about 478,000 people are currently registered to vote, compared to the 408,000 in 2016. The TSU-based radio station organized a voter registration drive Labor Day weekend.

HOUSTON – Many in Houston said they were left scratching their heads after watching the fiery and tumultuous exchanges during the first presidential debate. “It wasn’t a good showing for America,” said Chad Thompson. Houstonians said that the topics on healthcare, the economy and COVID-19 got lost in the scuffle and President Trump and Democratic Challenger Joe Biden both fell flat. “We didn’t really hear the issues and I don’t think it really helped people who are undecided to make a good decision,” said Thompson. Voters like Chasity Herbert said that they need more clarity from both candidates on their chiding for the country.

In the 1992 presidential election, independent candidate Ross Perot had what at the time was deemed an unusual selection for his running mate, retired Navy Admiral James Stockdale. Bush, who served as Reagan’s vice president, easily won the 1988 presidential election over Michael Dukakis. “I served with Jack Kennedy, I knew Jack Kennedy. Jack Kennedy was a friend of mine. Senator, you’re no Jack Kennedy,” Bentsen said.

And just like every election year, it’s of the utmost importance that citizens cast their ballot in this year’s election. If you’ve registered but are already concerned about how you will make it to a polling station, the ride-sharing company Uber wants to step in and lend a hand. As Election Day approaches, and as part of its “Get Out the Vote” campaign, the company aims to help people find their polling location, as well as offer discounted rides to and from the poll during early voting. “As we look ahead to this year’s election, we are committed to doing our part to make sure every citizen has access to vote,” Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi said. Uber officials said as Election Day nears, people will begin to have access to important information in the app.

HOUSTON – If you’ve been binge-watching on Netflix and you want to make some cash off your new hobby, you might be up for this challenge. If you can stream 24 hours of documentaries about great and terrible leaders in time for the 2020 election, you could win $2,020. If chosen, streaming service Magellan TV will set you up with all of the documentaries. The winner will also get a one-year membership to Magellan TV and two memberships for three months that you can share with friends and family. Magellan TV is a new documentary streaming service that claims to house more historical documentaries than anywhere online.

Really -- did you realize, in some areas, early voting begins in the next week? Some areas have opted out of in-person voting altogether -- Connecticut, Mississippi and South Carolina, to name a few -- but many are still encouraging early voting. People are opting to vote early — where they’re able — due to factors including coronavirus fears and doubts about the reliability of voting by mail. As more people are interested in voting by mail, only about 30% say they are “very confident” their mail-in vote will be counted accurately, according to the poll. Below is a breakdown of how voting is being handled in each state across the U.S.Scroll over the map below to see which states are opening early voting.

Question: When will ballots be sent to those who applied to vote by mail for the November election? Answer: Ballots will be mailed to domestic voters who have submitted their application beginning in mid-September. Voters who submit an application after mid-September will have their ballot mailed to them within seven days of their application being received. Harris County Clerk’s Office urges voters to take this into consideration when sending Vote by Mail application or ballot in order for the documents to be processed and counted. Ballot by mail applications must be received by the Harris County Clerk’s Office no later than Friday, October 23.

HOUSTON – NRG Arena has been designated as the election headquarters for the Harris County Clerk’s Office for the upcoming 2020 presidential election, NRG Park officials announced Monday. In addition to in-person voting, NRG Park will also serve as a drive-thru voting location, something Hollins likens to pulling up at your favorite fast-food restaurant. In-person Election Day voting will be held Nov. 3 at NRG Arena Proper. “We are proud to provide this facility for Harris County voters to participate in one of the most important rights and responsibilities that we as citizens have,” Executive Director of the Harris County Sports and Convention Corporation Ryan Walsh said. NRG Park has pledged to maintain the highest standards of public safety and health for the community as proud participants of Houston Clean and ASM Global’s Venue Shield.

Women wearing masks pose behind a voter registration table in Union Square as the city continues Phase 4 of re-opening following restrictions imposed to slow the spread of coronavirus on August 09, 2020 in New York City. Photo by Alexi RosenfeldAug. 18 marked the 100-year anniversary of the 19th Amendment being ratified, which changed elections forever. The 19th Amendment prohibits the state and federal government from denying the right of citizens to vote based on sex -- meaning, women became eligible to vote after previous years of discrimination at the polls. Since 1980, more women have voted in each presidential election than men, according to Statista. So, how much of a gap has there been between women and men voters in each presidential election of the century?

HOUSTON Primary runoff elections are underway in Harris County. Early voting is ongoing until July 10, and the election runoff is scheduled for July 14. Voters will decide who will advance to the General Election after primary results ended in a runoff. The primary runoff elections were originally scheduled for May but was pushed to July due to the coronavirus pandemic. Republican BallotU.S. Representative, District 18Robert M. CadenaWendell ChampionU.S. Representative, District 22Troy NehlsKathaleen WallHarris County SheriffJoe DannaPaul DayTo view more and to see the Republican sample ballot, click here.

Even if one candidate has more delegates than the other, that’s only a “plurality,” not a majority, per party rules. Candidates who earned delegates, but have since dropped out of the race, can try to push their delegates onto another candidate. A candidate needs to earn 2,375 delegates on subsequent ballots to win the nomination. However, having a contested convention is something the Democratic National Committee will do its best to avoid in the coming months. The last time a contested convention occurred was in 1952.

Political season is already in full swing, and it’s going to stay that way through November. Some information is fake, but it’s not always easy to spot. Creator Mark Zuckerberg has long insisted that “fake news” isn’t a serious problem on Facebook. “A lot of people share without actually reading the thing that they’re sharing," Bell said. You see the things that your friends share," Bell said.

HOUSTON – The Texas primary is fast approaching on March 3 and the Lone Star State will be among 14 states holding primaries on the same day — giving it the name, Super Tuesday. Several big races will be on Texans’ ballots including Sen. John Cornyn’s U.S. Senate seat, Railroad Commissioner and several Texas Senate and House districts.ButtigiegAs the March 3 Primary is inching closer, here are some of the races to watch this Super Tuesday, according to the Texas Tribune. PresidentDemocrat Republican Joe BidenMichael BloombergPete ButtgiegJulian CastroTulsi GabbardAmy KlobucharBernie SandersTom SteyerElizabeth WarrenRobby Wells Donald Trump (Incumbent)Roque “Rocky” De La Fuente GuerraZoltan G. IstvanMatthew John MaternBob ElyJoe WalshBill WeldU.S. SenateDemocrat Republican Chris BellMichael CooperAmanda EdwardsJack Daniel Foster, Jr.Annie “Mama” GarciaVictor Hugo HarrisMary “MJ” HegarSema HernandezD.R. HunterAdrian OceguedaCristina Tzinztun RamirezRoyce West John Cornyn (Incumbent)Virgil BierschwaleJohn Anthony CastroDwayne StovallMark YanceyRailroad CommissionerDemocrat Republican Roberto R. “Beto" AlonzoChrysta CastanedaKelly StoneMark Watson Ryan Sitton (Incumbent)James “Jim” WrightSupreme Court of Texas Chief JusticeDemocrat Republican Amy Clark MeachumJerry Zimmerer Nathan Hecht (Incumbent)Supreme Court of Texas, Place 3Democrat Republican William Pieratt DemondElizabeth Davis FrizellDan Wood Bert Richardson (Incumbent)Gina ParkerSupreme Court of Texas, Place 4Democrat Republican Tina ClintonSteven Miears Kevin Patrick Yeary (Incumbent)Supreme Court of Texas, Place 6Democrat Republican Kathy ChengLarry Praeger Jane Bland (Incumbent)Supreme Court of Texas, Place 7Democrat Republican Brandy VossStaci Williams Jeff Boyd (Incumbent)Supreme Court of Texas, Place 8Democrat Republican Peter KellyGisela D. Triana Brett Busby (Incumbent)Supreme Court of Texas, Place 9Democrat Republican Brandon Birmingham David NewellU.S. House, District 7Democrat Republican Lizzie Fletcher Maria EspinozaWesley HuntJim NotewareKyle PrestonLaique RehmanCindy SiegelTexas House, District 25Democrat Republican Patrick Henry Troy T. BrimageRo’Vin GarrettRhonda SethMitch ThamesCody Thane VasutTexas House, District 26Democrat Republican Lawrence Allen Jr.L. “Sarah” DeMerchantSuleman LalaniRish Oberoi Leonard N. ChanJacey JettonMatt MorganTexas House, District 132Democrat Republican Gina Calanni Angelica GarciaMike ScholfieldTexas House, District 134Democrat Republican Lanny BoseAnn JohnsonRuby Powers Sarah Davis (Incumbent)Texas House, District 135Democrat Republican Jon E. Rosenthal (Incumbent) Merrilee Rosene BeazleyJustin RayTexas House, District 138

Click or tap here for deadlines in each state to register for the primary election and the general election in November. This is where you really want to start familiarizing yourself with your state’s Secretary of State or Department of State website. People can be eligible to vote by mail if they are:Going to be away from their county on Election Day and during early voting. Absentee/mail-in ballots must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day. Ballots from voters overseas must be received by the fifth day after Election Day, while ballots from members of the armed forced must be received by the sixth day after Election Day.

These are the types of voting ballots and equipment used throughout the country, according to Ballotpedia:• Optical Scan Paper Ballot Systems: Voters mark their votes by filling in an oval, box, or similar shape on a paper ballot. Paper ballots are later scanned either at the polling place or at a central location. • Ballot Marking Devices and Systems: These systems are designed to help disabled voters who might be unable to vote using other methods. Rather than recording the vote into the computer’s memory, the ballot is instead marked on paper and later tabulated manually. • Punch Card Voting Systems: These devices employ a paper card and a small clipboard device.

No matter what happens in this year’s election, President Donald Trump has already made history in one way. While Trump is the third president ever to be impeached by the House of Representatives, he likely will be the first impeached president in history to be nominated by a political party to run for re-election. In short, the ability of Trump — or any president who gets impeached, for that matter — to seek re-election while impeached is entirely up to the Senate. This was never a scenario for the previous two presidents to be impeached by the House, Andrew Johnson and Bill Clinton. Clinton was impeached in 1999 during his second term and wasn’t allowed to run for president again due to term limits.

Did you know there are instances in which a single number of votes were the deciding factor? Singer John Legend has founded a campaign called #FREETHEVOTE, which documents the visceral experiences of those who have had their right to vote taken away because of the current criminal justice system. Regardless, by using your voice to cast a vote in elections, you can speak for yourself and those who aren’t able to speak for themselves. And you never know when your single vote could be the one that sways an election. Click here to register to vote and to learn about requirements on Election Day.