New York Times relaunches election predictor Needle during tech workers' strike

The New York Times has relaunched its election-prediction tool, the Needle, on election night, despite a strike by its tech workers. The Needle estimates election outcomes based on partial results, adjusting as more data comes in. The tech workers' union, representing over 600 employees, began the strike after contract negotiations failed. The union accused the company of unfair labor practices, marking the first strike during a presidential election since 1964. The Times noted that the Needle relies on computer systems maintained by engineers, some of whom are on strike. The newspaper emphasized that the Needle uses statistical modeling, not AI, and is monitored by journalists throughout election night.