CNN has revealed its plans for extensive coverage of the 2025 off-cycle election, which is expected to generate significant interest. The network will broadcast a "CNN Election Night 2025" special on November 4, 2025, providing real-time updates on key races across the United States. This includes the highly anticipated New York City mayoral race, the California special election, and the gubernatorial races in New Jersey and Virginia.
CNN's coverage will be spearheaded by Jake Tapper from Washington, D.C., while Anderson Cooper and Erin Burnett will anchor from New York City. According to the announcement, starting at 5 p.m. eastern, Tapper will be joined by Dana Bash and Kasie Hunt in D.C. Burnett will host a panel of political experts in New York, including CNN’s Audie Cornish. Cooper will then join the broadcast at 8 p.m. eastern and will appear with his own panel of experts for the remainder of the evening.
John King will analyze election results using the Magic Wall, while Kaitlan Collins will report from the White House. Abby Phillip will also contribute to the coverage. David Chalian will analyze exit polling, voting data, and redistricting outcomes. Phillip will take over coverage at midnight eastern, with Harry Enten taking over the Magic Wall. At 2 a.m. eastern, Elex Michaelson will anchor a special edition of "The Story Is" from Los Angeles, focusing on a key redistricting issue in California.
The network is also set to offer an exclusive “Election Livecast” on its CNN All Access tier, which launched in late October 2025. This stream, available from 8:30 to 10:30 p.m., will feature “an unexpected and diverse group of influential voices reacting in real-time” to the incoming results. Furthermore, CNN will deploy a team of anchors, correspondents, and reporters to key states for on-the-ground reporting and real-time reactions.
In addition to television coverage, CNN plans to provide comprehensive coverage via its website and app, featuring video explainers, live stories, and in-depth analysis of the results. The network will also offer coverage leading up to and throughout election day itself, ensuring viewers have access to the latest information and analysis.