Trump Edges Closer to Victory After Winning Key States, Democrats Face Low Morale
Former President Donald Trump is closing in on an electoral victory after NBC News projected wins in Georgia, North Carolina, and Pennsylvania. Celebrating with supporters in West Palm Beach, Trump hailed this potential comeback as historic. His running mate, Sen. JD Vance, lauded Trump’s return to the spotlight, calling him the “47th president and the 45th president.” Vance, a bold choice by Trump, received praise as Trump remarked he “knew the brain was a good one.”
Meanwhile, Democratic candidate Vice President Kamala Harris held off on public remarks, her campaign expressing concerns about narrowing pathways to victory as early results pointed to unexpected Republican gains. Amid a somber atmosphere at Harris’ event in Washington, D.C., some attendees likened the mood to a “funeral,” reflecting declining enthusiasm as battleground outcomes rolled in.
The NBC exit polls highlighted that only 32% of voters identified as Democrats this year — the lowest this century — while a rise in independent voters further complicated the Democratic outlook. Concerningly, the exit polls showed Trump’s traction among Latino men and Black voters increasing from 2020. Conversely, Trump experienced a dip in support among suburban white women and seniors, areas where Harris managed modest gains.
Reflecting a shift in issue priorities, democracy was a central concern for Harris voters, while Trump’s supporters rated the economy and immigration as top concerns. On abortion rights, Harris affirmed her stance to restore protections, while Trump reiterated that abortion should remain a state decision, with specific exemptions.
Despite confidence from both sides, exit polls captured widespread dissatisfaction, with 72% of voters expressing discontent with the country’s direction. Notably, support for legal abortion grew among voters, marking a shift in opinion since 2020.
As the final votes are tallied, demographic changes and issue alignments show the complex landscape shaping this historic election’s outcome.
