Thanks to the constant barrage of television ads, text messages, emails, and mailers, even the most uninformed American knows there is an election today (Tuesday, November 5). On the presidential side of things, tensions are at an all-time high. According to national polls, Republican nominee former president Donald J. Trump and Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris are virtually tied. It is anyone’s guess how this all will turn out.
With all the stress of the election, you might want to hide in a pillow fort to protect your mental health. When you are ready to come out for updates, here are some ways to stay informed during the day.
Live Election 2024 maps and decision desks
Decision desks at national news outlets such as the Associated Press and Decision Desk HQ play a big role in calling local and national races and will typically update their infographics in real time:
Election 2024 coverage on traditional TV networks
Since the first polls close at 6 p.m. ET, most major networks won’t begin their coverage until prime-time. ABC, NBC, and CBS will all follow this format. If you have an over-the-air antenna and patience, you will be good to go.
The news divisions of the major networks also have their own streaming services that are free and easy to access online or via smart TVs:
Election 2024 coverage on live-TV streaming services
Live-TV streaming services carry news networks such as CNN, MSNBC, and Fox News. Those include:
Hulu and Fubo also have free trials so you can try it out before fully committing.
Amazon Prime Video is using the 2024 election to get into the news business. Election Night Live With Brian Williams will feature 10 hours of free coverage and begin at 5 p.m. ET.
Free Election 2024 coverage on websites
Several news websites are removing their paywalls for the important event:
- CNN.com will have free updates from 7 p.m. to 3 a.m. ET.
- The Washington Post may not have endorsed a candidate, but it will host Post Live Election Daily show regardless.
- MSNBC.com says it will feature election-related updates all day.
- NPR: If listening to just audio is more your style, National Public Radio’s app or website is the source for you.
Peacock, NBCUniversal’s streaming service, will continue its multi-view experience from the Olympics. It is a choose-your-own-adventure way to consume the news. Unfortunately, there are no free trials here.
Free Election 2024 coverage on YouTube
Several networks are extending their coverage to YouTube:
- PBS NewsHour will begin its YouTube live-streaming at 12 p.m. ET. The NewsHour broadcast begins at 6 p.m. ET. We’ve also embedded the video below.
- NBC News will kick things off at 3 p.m. ET.
- MSNBC: Steve Kornacki’s “Kornacki Cam” will stream on MSNBC’s YouTube channel beginning at 6 p.m. ET.
Election 2024 results on your iPhone lock screen
Apple News is letting users of get live election results right on their iPhone or iPad lock screens, as MacRumors reported. It’s part of the company’s “live activities” support.
Free Election 2024 coverage on social media
If you prefer to get your news through Snapchat, head over to Stay Tuned, an NBC social media program. It will featured a segment called “24 in 24” highlighting Gen Z leaders and their impact on the election.
Election 2024 coverage for early risers
If Election Day anxiety and the time change cause you to wake up in the middle of the night, CNN has you covered. Election Day in America with Boris Sanchez and Jessica Dean starts at midnight on November 5.
MSNBC also has morning people covered. Way Too Early with John Lemire will kick off coverage at 5 a.m. ET. Stay tuned for Morning Joe hosted by Joe Scarborough, Mika Brzezinski, and Willie Geist immediately following.
Head over to Disney+ or Hulu for ABC News Live Election Day coverage beginning at 8 a.m. ET.