Behind the scenes: Local 4 election data team works to deliver accurate results on election night

While reporters are covering races across Metro Detroit, another team is working behind the scenes to make sure voters have access to the latest election results as they come in. The Local 4 election data team is responsible for tracking returns from county clerks across Michigan, verifying incoming numbers and entering results into systems used for coverage on television, online and through the Local 4 app. The work is a critical part of election night coverage, helping ensure results are reported as quickly and accurately as possible while maintaining the accuracy viewers rely on. Special Projects Producer Sarah Mayberry joined election coverage to discuss the process and how the pace changes throughout the night as more precincts report results. Mayberry explained that election nights often begin with a steady flow of information before accelerating as polls close and counties start releasing larger batches of results. The team monitors incoming data, checks for accuracy, and works to identify important developments as races take shape.