Explained: Why US votes on Tuesday after first Monday of November

In Latin America, elections typically take place on Sundays, while India’s vast geography means its voting process often goes on over several weeks. Across the Middle East, Saturday is commonly the designated day.

In the United States, however, every four years, voters head to the polls on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November to choose the next president.

This November 5, Americans will make their way to the polls once again, casting their votes in a race between Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris and her Republican challenger, Donald Trump.

Yet, despite the long tradition of early November elections, the origins of this specific timing are less widely known.

The story of why Americans vote on Tuesdays traces back to the mid-19th century, shaped by a blend of practical, cultural, and religious considerations that were crucial to society at that time.

This practice, established in 1845, was designed to accommodate the predominantly agrarian society of the 19th century.

This was an era when most citizens were farmers. Their life revolved around seasonal work, religious rituals, and weekly markets.

Yes, you heard right, it is all tied to American farmers.

Back then, American farmers relied on horse-drawn vehicles to reach polling stations, which could require a full day’s travel.

Since Sundays were reserved for worship and Wednesdays served as market days for farmers, choosing a weekday in between was the most practical solution for voting.

Holding elections on Tuesday allowed citizens to travel to polling places without interfering with their commitments.

Additionally, scheduling elections after the first Monday ensured they wouldn't fall on November 1, which is All Saints' Day, a significant religious practice for some.

Over time, the practice became more uniform, and the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November became the logical middle ground for general presidential elections.

Cultural and practical norms

The choice to hold elections after the first Monday wasn’t just practical; it was also influenced by cultural norms.

Many merchants closed their books on the first day of the month, and scheduling elections after this day prevented potential interference with business or end-of-month obligations.

November was also chosen to avoid the intense periods of planting and harvest seasons in the fall, making it easier for rural citizens to participate.

Today, the agricultural life that shaped this decision has largely faded.

Some suggest moving Election Day to the weekend or making it a national holiday to increase voter turnout, as many Americans find it difficult to get to the polls on a weekday.

Although those efforts haven't succeeded, expanded options for early and mail-in voting have made Election Day less central to the voting experience than it once was.

While modern life no longer demands the same travel schedules or market days, the tradition of Tuesday voting remains—a reminder of a time when practical travel needs shaped the nation’s voting habits.