Why the 2020 American Presidential General Election Was So Close
The 2020 American presidential general election remains a subject of intense scrutiny and analysis. While some argue that the closeness of the election is by design, others attribute it to various socioeconomic and political factors.
Strategic Campaigning and Polling
The close margins in the 2020 election can be attributed to strategic campaigning and the comprehensive analysis of polling data. Candidates evaluate the diverse range of issues and concerns of voters, strategically choosing a platform that balances support for popular issues with critical ones that resonate with their base. This approach allows them to draw from both the majority’s preferences and key base issues to maximize their electoral success.
The Role of Mid-term Elections and Public Sentiment
The 2020 mid-term elections saw a significant shift in public sentiment, particularly among conservative voters. Following instances of alleged fascism among some conservative groups, a sense of outrage and fear motivated many to vote against the Republican Party. This propelled the Democrats to gain control of the House of Representatives, although by a narrow margin.
The narrow victory of Joe Biden was influenced by historical trends. Mid-term elections traditionally favor the opposition party, and this political landscape played a role in the outcome. Despite the Democrats winning the popular vote by a significant margin, the electoral college vote resulted in a closer margin than expected. Biden won by 74 electoral votes, further highlighting the tight nature of the race.
Cherry-Picking Issues and Campaign Strategies
The closeness of the election can also be attributed to the strategic use of certain issues. Candidates choose to highlight issues that resonate most with their base while remaining concise and focused. For instance, Biden’s emphasis on healthcare, education, and climate change alongside his stance on abortion rights played a crucial role in mobilizing support. Trump’s platform, on the other hand, focused on economic recovery, immigration reform, and law and order, but may have faltered due to the influx of new voters driven by the incitement incident of January 6, 2021.
Electoral Margin and Disputed Votes
The final margin between Biden and Trump was not as close as the 7 million popular vote difference might suggest. The election results were ultimately determined by the electoral college, with Biden winning with just a modest 74 electoral votes. While Trump maintained a significant lead among those who actually cast their ballots, other factors, such as historical patterns and the impact of recent events, influenced the final outcome.
Conclusion and Reflection
The American electoral system has a long and rich history, marked by peaceful transfers of power and regular presidential elections every four years. The 2020 election, with its close margins, serves as a reminder of the complexities of the democratic process. As voters continue to play a crucial role in shaping the future of the nation, understanding the factors that influence election outcomes becomes increasingly important.