As the United States prepares for one of its most closely contested presidential races in modern history, all eyes are on Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, who are competing for crucial electoral votes in seven key battleground states.
With each candidate needing at least 270 out of 538 electoral votes to win, these states could ultimately determine the outcome.
Under the U.S. Electoral College system, each state holds its own vote, with the number of electors determined by population. Most states follow a winner-take-all rule, awarding all their electors to the popular vote winner, creating high-stakes competition in swing states with histories of shifting between Democratic and Republican candidates.
Here’s a breakdown of the states that could tip the scales:
1. Pennsylvania (19 Electoral Votes)
Once a reliably Democratic state, Pennsylvania has become a major battleground.
Trump narrowly won it in 2016, while Biden recaptured it in 2020. Harris and Trump have both prioritized Pennsylvania in their campaigns, with Harris highlighting recent infrastructure projects and plans to invest in manufacturing - a key issue in this state with a long history of industrial decline. Trump, meanwhile, has focused on rallying support in rural areas and addressing concerns about immigration.
2. Georgia (16 Electoral Votes)
Georgia emerged as a focal point in 2020 when Biden became the first Democrat to win it since 1992.
Trump’s recent legal troubles in the state related to election interference have added to the high-stakes atmosphere, though the case is paused until after the election. Harris is making efforts to appeal to Georgia's increasingly diverse electorate, hoping demographic shifts will work in her favor.
3. North Carolina (16 Electoral Votes)
North Carolina has leaned Republican in recent decades, but Harris is optimistic about its shifting demographics.
The state’s growing population and diversity favor Democrats, though the race is complicated by a scandal involving a Republican gubernatorial candidate that could affect Trump’s support. The recent devastation caused by storm Helene could also impact voter sentiment.
4. Michigan (15 Electoral Votes)
A former Democratic stronghold, Michigan swung to Trump in 2016 before Biden won it back in 2020.
Harris faces challenges in this key state, where a sizable Arab-American population is dissatisfied with the administration’s handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Both parties are working hard to secure support among union workers and urban voters.
5. Arizona (11 Electoral Votes)
Arizona’s narrow Democratic victory in 2020 makes it a critical swing state in this election.
Trump hopes to capitalize on dissatisfaction with current immigration policies to win back support. Harris has pledged to address border issues and reinstate a bipartisan immigration bill, focusing on voters concerned about security and economic stability.
6. Wisconsin (10 Electoral Votes)
Wisconsin was a key state in both the 2016 and 2020 elections, with slim margins determining the outcome.
Trump, who has campaigned extensively here, sees it as winnable, while Harris has worked to close the gap, making the race too close to call. Wisconsin’s significance is further underscored by the Republican Party’s decision to host their national convention in the state.
7. Nevada (6 Electoral Votes)
Traditionally leaning Democratic, Nevada is another closely watched state, especially as Trump gains ground among Hispanic voters.
Harris has focused on economic plans aimed at small businesses and inflation control, which have helped her catch up in the polls. With Las Vegas and its hospitality industry playing a major role, the state’s economy remains a central issue for both candidates.
As Election Day approaches, these seven states will likely see intense campaigning and mobilization efforts from both sides, with each vote potentially shaping the outcome of this historic race.