The tension rises and the drama builds. The results have been trickling in all night — first it was too early to call, then it was too close to call. But, finally, the networks are ready. The anchor cuts off whoever is speaking and says “we’re ready to make a projection.”

There’s a brief pause as the graphics come on the screen and the music pipes in. It took a long time, but the network is now ready to project a government. Will it be majority or minority, Liberal or Conservative (or something else)?

It’s the most dramatic moment of every election night special. But a lot of work goes into making that call. Just how is it done?

In this episode of The Writ Podcast, I’m joined by Meg Banks, senior producer, CBC News Elections. I’ve worked with her on many elections in the past and I’m really pleased she could join me to explain how the decision desk makes its calls.

(This is an extra episode of the podcast — I’ll be back with another episode tomorrow!)

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