A situation in which two or more candidates for the same office receive an equal number of votes. Some states resolve tie votes by LOT. For major offices, such as United States Senator, the tie may be resolved by the state legislature (see Nev. Rev. Stat. §293.400(1)(a)) or by holding a (see N.C. Gen. Stat. §163-182.2(1), 23 Virgin Islands Code §628). NEW ELECTION In some states, ties are resolved by holding a ELECTION. Me. Rev. Stat. §21-A- SPECIAL 732(2).
What happens when an election ends in a tie?
A tied election triggers the tie-handling procedure established by the applicable election law. Depending on the jurisdiction and contest, that can involve a recount, runoff, drawing lots, another prescribed random method, or a decision by a designated body. Officials first confirm the tied totals through the required canvass and any mandatory review.
How is a tie vote resolved?
A tie vote is resolved under the jurisdiction's specific election statute or rule, not by one universal method. Possible procedures include a recount, runoff election, drawing lots, coin toss, or another legally prescribed mechanism. The method can also depend on the office, election type, and whether the tie remains after canvassing or recounting.
Are tie-breaking rules the same in every jurisdiction?
No. Tie-breaking rules vary substantially by jurisdiction and sometimes by the type of office or election. One law may require a runoff, while another permits drawing lots or another random method after the totals are confirmed. Election officials must follow the controlling statute, charter, or election code rather than applying a general rule.
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A situation in which two or more candidates for the same office receive an equal number of votes. Some states resolve tie votes by LOT. For major offices, such as United States Senator, the tie may be resolved by the state legislature (see Nev. Rev. Stat. §293.400(1)(a)) or by holding a (see N.C. Gen. Stat. §163-182.2(1), 23 Virgin Islands Code §628). NEW ELECTION In some states, ties are resolved by holding a ELECTION. Me. Rev. Stat. §21-A- SPECIAL 732(2).
Cite this term
Election Security Glossary. (2026). Tie Vote. In Election Security Glossary. Retrieved August 22, 2026, from https://electionsecurityglossary.com/glossary/tie-vote
Sources
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High consensus
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Disputed
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