How We'll Analyze The Races

CBS News will use clear and precise language and graphics to characterize and explain results. We will not project a winner in a given race until after the scheduled poll closing times in that state. We will use strigent criteria and multiple kinds of information to make projections: exit polls, actual vote returns from sample precincts, and tabulated votes. In 13 states with a high percentage of absentee or early voters, we will also use a telephone survey of those voters conducted close to Election Day to measure preferences and opinions of those voters.

Since 2000, the computer system processing this information has been completely overhauled, and there have been additional quality control checks. Edison Media Research and Mitofsky International will conduct the exit polls and collect sample precincts results. The Associated Press is the source of all tabulated votes.