Amid a high-stakes presidential election, preliminary exit polls from Edison Research reveal that nearly three-quarters of voters believe American democracy is under threat.
The finding underscores the deep anxiety and polarisation surrounding the contest between Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and her Republican rival, former President Donald Trump.
The survey shows that 73% of voters feel democracy is “in jeopardy,” with only 25% viewing it as secure.
The concern is widespread as the nation grapples with significant divisions following a campaign marked by intense rhetoric and an urgent sense of national crisis.
The poll data indicates that democracy and the economy dominated voters’ minds, with roughly a third of respondents citing each as their top issue. Abortion and immigration trailed behind as other pressing topics, with 14% and 11% of voters, respectively, marking them as top priorities.
In her campaign, Harris called for unity and warned that another Trump term could undermine American democratic institutions.
Trump, meanwhile, fueled skepticism over the election system, alleging without evidence that the process might be compromised.
The exit poll also provides insights into how Americans perceive the candidates. Harris held a slight favorability advantage with 48% of voters viewing her positively, a small edge over Trump’s 44%.
However, Harris trails the favorability rating of her predecessor, President Joe Biden, who was viewed positively by 52% in 2020.
Harris’s campaign relied on high turnout from female voters, who made up 53% of the electorate this year—similar to 2020’s 52%.
Meanwhile, voters without a college degree, who tend to lean towards Trump, represented 57% of the electorate, down slightly from 59% in 2020.
Beyond the policy contrasts, history will be made no matter the outcome. Harris, already the first female vice president, would become the first woman, Black woman, and South Asian American president if she prevails.
Trump, seeking to reclaim the presidency, could become the first U.S. leader in over a century to serve non-consecutive terms.
The path to victory hinges on seven critical battleground states: Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Both campaigns have poured billions of dollars into outreach efforts and voter mobilization in these states.
Despite the tensions surrounding the race, polling stations across the country reported orderly lines and calm voting conditions.
Trump cast his ballot in Palm Beach, Florida, telling reporters he would accept a fair election outcome, but cautioned against potential delays in vote counting due to voting machines in key states.
Harris, who cast her vote by mail in California, spent part of Election Day encouraging Americans to vote and was set to speak at her alma mater, Howard University, in Washington, D.C., later in the day.
This election will also determine the balance of power in Congress. Republicans have a favorable position in the Senate, where Democrats are defending seats in conservative-leaning states, while the House remains a close contest, with both parties vying for control.
As results begin to trickle in, exit polls offer a snapshot of the electorate’s mindset. With millions of ballots already cast, this election could redefine American politics and the future of its democracy.
Chioma Kalu
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