As the 2024 presidential election nears, critical battleground states like Georgia and Pennsylvania are pivotal for determining the winner. In Georgia, economic concerns and voter demographics play a significant role, with Kamala Harris targeting younger and minority voters. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania’s working-class voters, impacted by industrial decline, are crucial, as both parties heavily campaign for their support. The outcome in these states could ultimately decide the presidency, emphasizing the importance of voter turnout.
As the 2024 American presidential election approaches, the outcome once again appears to hinge on a few critical states, where just a handful of votes could determine the winner. Donald Trump and Kamala Harris are focusing their final campaign efforts on these battleground regions, which do not firmly align with either party. Unlike states with solid support for the Democrats, like California and New York, or those favoring the Republicans, such as Kentucky and Oklahoma, these swing states are pivotal in shaping the electoral landscape.
Georgia: A Key Battleground
Following significant anti-racist movements, Georgia, a traditionally conservative state with a substantial African American electorate (around 30%), swung in favor of Democrat Joe Biden in 2020. Kamala Harris, potentially the first Black woman in the White House, is aiming to connect with the younger demographic and minority groups in Atlanta. However, she faces challenges in securing the Black male vote. Local resident Monica sums up the sentiment: ‘I will vote on Tuesday, election day. Both are offering the same thing. Whoever wins, wins.’
In the Peach State, economic issues and inflation are paramount. Charles, a Georgia resident, notes a $35 increase in his rent this year, reflecting widespread financial concerns. He shares his perspective: ‘With Trump, there was money in our pockets to buy what we need. That’s why I have no problem with him.’ Interestingly, he ultimately voted for Kamala Harris due to his girlfriend’s influence. The religious demographic in Georgia also leans towards Trump, celebrating his role in overturning the federal abortion guarantee.
Pennsylvania: The Deciding State
Pennsylvania emerged as a crucial battleground in 2020, where Biden’s victory was decided by a mere 11,000 votes, underscoring the importance of each ballot. In this swing state, the electoral landscape is shaped by the concerns of working-class voters, particularly in deindustrialized regions and rural areas. Pennsylvania stands out as the most sought-after prize in the election.
Many blue-collar workers from this northeastern state, having experienced substantial industrial decline, have shifted their allegiance to Donald Trump. In response, Kamala Harris aims to regain their support through Joe Biden’s major infrastructure initiatives, which promise job creation and union backing. While large cities like Philadelphia and Pittsburgh lean Democratic, rural residents voice their concerns about high taxes and expensive gas prices. One local resident expresses: ‘It’s very important that our economy rebounds. I think Trump will have a more streamlined government and will lower our taxes.’
Recent weeks have seen both parties invest heavily in Pennsylvania, with the Democrats mobilizing activists and resources to ensure voter turnout. An activist recently remarked: ‘Here, we are no longer trying to convince people, just to ensure that Democrats show up on the day.’ Polling indicates a fiercely competitive race, and the victor in Pennsylvania is likely to secure the presidency.