Because of the unpredictability of swing states, they are crucial in determining the outcome of presidential elections. Since states can "swing" for either candidate, candidates will focus on winning over said states throughout the campaign period.

The 2024 presidential election is over, but the path to Inauguration Day on Jan. 20 is just beginning. The votes have to be certified in the states, the Electoral College has to meet and then Congress counts the vote.

(Reuters) -Democrat Kamala Harris faced Republican Donald Trump on Tuesday in the U.S. presidential election. There are 538 Electoral College votes allotted to the 50 states and the District of Columbia.