International: As the counting phase of the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election intensifies, early projections indicate a strong start for former President Donald Trump, who currently leads with victories in 20 states and holds 210 electoral votes.
Vice President Kamala Harris, meanwhile, has secured wins in eight states, bringing her total to 112 electoral votes. With 270 votes needed to secure the presidency, the race remains competitive and uncertain, with both campaigns eyeing the still-undecided swing states.
The early results primarily reflect outcomes from states with historically strong Republican or Democratic leanings. However, these tallies do not yet include key battleground states, which experts suggest will ultimately decide the next president. Trump has an early edge in six of these pivotal states, but final counts in Pennsylvania, Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, and Wisconsin are expected to determine the election’s winner.
Exit polls highlight voter concerns that may have influenced these early returns. A CBS News poll reveals that the state of American democracy is a top issue for about 60% of voters, underscoring widespread concern over political stability. The economy, as expected, remains another priority, with 10% of voters listing it as their primary concern, while 5% prioritized abortion rights.
A separate poll conducted by CNN captures the nation’s tense atmosphere, with around 75% of respondents expressing dissatisfaction with the current direction of the country. Of those, 30% reported feeling anger, reflecting a polarized and highly charged electorate. Only a quarter of voters expressed feelings of optimism or satisfaction, underscoring the stakes and deep divisions as the race unfolds.
As vote counting progresses, attention remains fixed on the swing states that will ultimately decide the race. With the election still close, analysts predict that the final tally in these critical regions will define the outcome of one of the most closely contested presidential races in recent history.