Lagatar24 Desk
Washington: The U.S. presidential election is reaching a climactic finish, with Kamala Harris and Donald Trump locked in a tight race. Crucial swing states—Pennsylvania, Michigan, Wisconsin, Nevada, Arizona, Georgia, and North Carolina—are expected to play a pivotal role in determining the next president.
For Trump, whose favorability rating remains at 43 percent, securing the national popular vote could be a challenge, as he has consistently polled below 50 percent since leaving office.
Key Issues Shaping the Election
- Economy: With inflation and cost-of-living issues front and center, Trump has gained a 15-point lead on economic management in swing states, with many viewing him as the better candidate to handle the economy. The Biden administration has seen costs rise between 10-40 percent, adding to voter concerns.
- Immigration and Border Control: Trump has placed a strong emphasis on immigration, positioning himself as the candidate best suited to manage the border. Despite a recent decrease in immigration challenges under Biden, Trump’s focus resonates with voters concerned about border security.
- Abortion and Reproductive Rights: Harris, viewed as an advocate for reproductive rights, has a significant lead among women voters in swing states, polling up to 15 points ahead of Trump. With abortion on the ballot in key swing states like Nevada and Arizona, Harris is leveraging this issue to energize her base.
- Safeguarding Democracy: With half the country perceiving Trump as a potential authoritarian threat, Harris has emphasized unity and a pledge to collaborate across party lines. This theme could sway voters wary of divisive politics.
What They Need to Win
- For Harris: Her path to victory lies in framing the election as a referendum on Trump, emphasizing unity, and activating her well-funded $1 billion voter outreach effort in swing states.
- For Trump: He must rally voters on concerns about inflation, immigration, and crime, as well as address any unease about Harris’s potential presidency as the first Black and South Asian woman.
With only hours to go, the U.S. awaits a decision that could shift the country’s future, wondering whether Harris’ message of unity will prevail or Trump’s promise to restore economic stability will capture the vote.
