2 weeks ago
Trump Takes Lead Over Harris as Early Voting Shatters Records in US Presidential Race
In the final stretch of the 2024 US presidential election, a new Wall Street Journal (WSJ) poll shows former President Donald Trump edging ahead of Vice President Kamala Harris. According to the poll, Trump, representing the Republican Party, now holds 47% of the vote, compared to Harris’s 45%, marking a shift from August when Harris led by two percentage points.
As early voting continues, a record-breaking turnout is being observed across the country, especially in battleground states. Nearly 25 million Americans have already cast their votes, either in person or by mail, with Republicans significantly embracing early voting. States like Georgia, where Trump lost narrowly in 2020, and North Carolina have reported record numbers despite challenges such as September’s Hurricane Helene.
Swing states are once again proving pivotal, with Trump and Harris running neck-and-neck in places like Pennsylvania and Michigan. Trump's strategy focuses on economic issues, appealing to working-class voters with promises of job growth and tax relief, while Harris highlights social policies and economic recovery.
This election has been marked by both parties’ efforts to boost early voter turnout. Trump’s rallies and his focus on economic dissatisfaction appear to have energized his base, while Harris has engaged voters through community events. Their campaigns reflect distinct approaches: Trump continues his characteristic large-scale rallies and strong messaging, while Harris often participates in local events, aiming to connect with a broader demographic.
The WSJ poll, released on October 23, indicates a significant surge of Republican engagement, as noted by the widespread early voting in key states. Al Jazeera also reports an intense race in critical states that may ultimately determine the outcome. In Georgia alone, more than 1.9 million voters have participated early, a number likely influenced by the close margin in Trump’s 2020 loss to Joe Biden. North Carolina similarly broke records, with over 1.7 million early votes cast despite logistical setbacks.
As election day on November 5 draws closer, both candidates are doubling down on their efforts to secure votes in crucial regions. Each state and the District of Columbia will vote for electors who will ultimately select the president and vice president.
This high-stakes election reflects deep national divides and highlights key issues of economy, social policy, and foreign affairs, with Trump aiming to capitalize on economic grievances and Harris addressing broader recovery and reform. With early voting at unprecedented levels, the final outcome remains uncertain, especially in swing states that are expected to play a decisive role in determining the next president.
Source: Legit.ng, WSJ, Al Jazeera
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