CNN to launch new election data and analysis tool to demystify Decision Desk

CNN will debut a new election data and analysis tool called Sightline that gives political junkies access to the expertise behind its Decision Desk. Why it matters: Sightline aims to pull back the curtain on the real-time metrics and logic that power the network's forecasts."I think there's long been a desire to better explain what it is that's happening within a decision desk operation," CNN's vice president of election and data reporting Jennifer Agiesta said."It seems like this magical wizardry," but "there's math here."Zoom in: Sightline will be available on CNN's homepage and app beginning Nov. 3. It will also be featured throughout the network's "Election Night in America" broadcast.The tool will only include data and analysis across key Senate and gubernatorial contests nationwide — no House races. Anyone can view high-level race assessments online for free. CNN digital subscribers can access deeper data analysis and visualizations, including county-level data breakdowns and vote-method splits. How it works: Sightline assesses races across five metrics: including outstanding votes, geographical voting patterns, voting methods, historical voting patterns and the size of a ra…

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