October 27, 2026 – A new FairVote report finds that election recounts rarely change the outcome of a race. Margins must be exceptionally close for a change in outcome to be plausible.

In the 7,437 statewide general elections from 2000 through 2025, there were 37 complete statewide recounts. Only three of those 37 recounts changed the outcome of the race. In all three, the original margin of victory was less than 0.06%. Recounts tend to lead to small vote gains for both sides, and typically widen the gap between the top two candidates instead of decreasing it. 

“This report shows that U.S. election results are accurate and trustworthy. In nearly 7,500 elections over 25 years, recounts have changed the outcome just three times,” said Ben Williams, FairVote’s Senior Policy Counsel and Researcher. “States should have a clear process in place for recounts to ensure voter trust and confidence – but don’t expect recounts to change election outcomes unless the margin is razor-thin.” 

The report authors recommend that states automatically conduct statewide recounts when the margin of victory is within 0.1%. They note that recounts are less likely to impact outcomes than court challenges. 

The report authors also note the troubling recent trend of recounts well outside the range where they could be considered consequential, and discourage states from allowing candidate-funded recounts when the margin is above 1%.

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FairVote is a nonpartisan organization seeking better elections for all. We research and advance voting reforms that make democracy more functional and representative for every American.