The United States chooses its president in a challenge that promises to be the last vote between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. The Republican candidate, as widely expected, prevails in Kentucky according to CNN projections, winning the 8 electors up for grabs. He also conquers Indiana and its 11 electors and wins in West Virginia (4 electors). The Republican candidate thus rises to 23 electors. Harris wins in Vermont, which is worth 3 electors. But everything is played out in key states where they are neck and neck. We are talking about Georgia, North Carolina – two of the seven swing states crucial for the race for the White House – Ohio, South Carolina and Virginia.
The very high tones of the day before remained so on election day. To avoid the specter of the attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021, security measures are massive everywhere, especially in the capital Washington, with the Capitol and the White House armored and guarded by dozens of officers in riot gear. Even before the polls opened this morning, more than 80 million Americans had already voted: just under 5 million voted in person, around 38 million by mail. The two challengers also cast their votes: Harris voted yesterday by mail, Trump a few hours ago at the polling station in Palm Beach, Florida, a few minutes from his Mar-a-Lago residence where he went with his wife Melania.
“I’m very confident, the numbers say we’re doing well”, said Trump, who ruled out that there would be violence in the event of his defeat. Even the Dem candidate, who underwent a veritable radio marathon speaking on broadcasters in all seven swing states (Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Georgia, Michigan and Arizona) and will spend the election night in her university, Howard University in Washington, sent its appeal to vote: “Election Day has arrived – said Harris – we vote because we love our country and we believe in the promise of America. Make your voice heard. Let’s vote for a better future.”
The final result is as precarious as ever. And precisely for this reason the outcome of the polls could be announced during the night, or it will require days of waiting. US intelligence has denounced attempts by Russian trolls to interfere in the electoral process: the FBI has denounced that two fake videos with the agency’s logo were “improperly used to promote false narratives about the elections”.
The candidates’ statements do not contribute to easing the tension. “There is a lot of talk about massive fraud in Philadelphia. Get the police involved!”, wrote Donald Trump on his Truth Social account, after having stated in the morning that “so far” the elections had been “fair”. The denial came quickly from the police who, according to a CNN report, made it known that they knew nothing about it. On the Democratic field, Harris’ staff says that Trump could claim victory before the result of the vote arrives. This was reported by CNN, which quotes two advisors to the vice president who say that in any case Trump’s statements will not go unanswered.
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**Interview with Political Analyst Dr. Emily Carter on the U.S. Presidential Election 2024**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us, Dr. Carter. The election between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump has reached a critical point. What were the key takeaways from the early results we’ve seen?
**Dr. Carter:** Thank you for having me. The initial results highlight a divided landscape. Trump’s victories in states like Kentucky, Indiana, and West Virginia suggest that he is maintaining strong support within the Republican base. Meanwhile, Harris managed to secure Vermont, but the real battleground lies in the swing states—Georgia and North Carolina are proving to be especially crucial.
**Interviewer:** Indeed, swing states can often determine the outcome. How significant do you think these results are at this early stage?
**Dr. Carter:** Very significant. The fact that Trump has gained 23 electors already puts him in a favorable position, but it’s still very early. The race is neck and neck in several swing states, and voter turnout, both in-person and mail-in, will be pivotal. With over 80 million Americans having voted prior to Election Day, it reflects high voter engagement, which can often predict the mood of the electorate.
**Interviewer:** Security measures have been heightened across the country, especially in Washington, D.C. How do you think this climate of tension and concern over past events impacts voter sentiment?
**Dr. Carter:** Security concerns undoubtedly have an impact. The visible presence of law enforcement and the precautions being taken may cause some voters to feel uneasy about expressing their preferences openly. However, for many Americans, the urgency of the issues at stake, like healthcare and the economy, likely outweighs these concerns. It’s a delicate balance between fear and the need to be heard.
**Interviewer:** Both candidates are expressing confidence. Trump mentioned that he’s optimistic about the numbers while ruling out potential violence in case of defeat. How does this shape the narrative going forward?
**Dr. Carter:** Trump’s assertion can be interpreted in a couple of ways. On one hand, it projects confidence to his base, which is important for morale. On the other hand, it sets an expectation for a peaceful transition, should the results not favor him. The narratives that both campaigns create around their chances can significantly influence voter turnout and public perception, especially in these tense times.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights. As the election unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how these dynamics play out.
**Dr. Carter:** My pleasure! It will certainly be a pivotal moment for American politics. Thank you for having me.