In a remarkable turn of events, 2024 is set to be a pivotal year in American politics as Donald Trump has secured a victory in the presidential election, becoming the first president to win non-consecutive terms since Grover Cleveland. This election was heavily influenced by key issues such as inflation and immigration.
Throughout the campaign, Trump faced serious challenges, including two assassination attempts—one of which was thwarted by the Secret Service. Meanwhile, President Biden withdrew from the race late in the campaign, leaving the stage clear for a Trump resurgence.
Here are some critical statistics that defined this extraordinary year in U.S. politics:
155 million
Over 155 million people voted in the 2024 presidential election, making it the second-highest turnout in U.S. history, behind the 2020 election. This represented a turnout rate of 63.9% of eligible voters, marking one of the highest engagement levels in the past century.
71%
White voters comprised 71% of the electorate, a notable increase that has not been seen since 1992. This demographic shift played a significant role in Trump’s victory, with significant support coming from white voters without college degrees.
46%
Trump garnered 46% of the Latino vote, a historic high for any Republican candidate. The support largely came from Latino men, showcasing a significant shift in voter alignment.
$1.2 billion
A staggering $1.2 billion was spent on political advertisements in Pennsylvania alone, reflecting the highest state-level ad spending on record.
49.8%
Trump’s popular vote percentage stood at 49.8%. While not an overwhelming mandate, this figure suggests a significant level of support that could shape the next administration’s policy agenda.
38%
President Biden’s average approval rating was a concerning 38% just before the election, a factor that heavily influenced his campaign’s viability.
7,309
Only 7,309 votes separated candidates in tightly contested congressional districts, illustrating the razor-thin margins that continue to define American electoral politics.
76%
According to exit polls, 76% of voters felt their personal financial situation was worse or unchanged compared to four years ago, a trend that could hinder the incumbent party’s reputation going forward.
2.1 million
There were approximately 2.1 million migrant encounters at the southwest border during the fiscal year 2024, although this figure was lower than in preceding years, indicating ongoing challenges in immigration policy.
23 million
Approximately 23 million women live in states with restrictive abortion laws, highlighting critical issues of reproductive rights in the current political landscape.
1,500
Biden made 1,500 pardons in one day, setting a record but also facing backlash for politically charged decisions. This highlights the complexity and potential controversy surrounding clemency actions.
17
Voter sentiment shifted dramatically, with a 17-point shift towards Trump among voters earning less than $100,000 annually, marking a significant change in traditional voting patterns.
88
Trump is facing 88 felony counts across various legal cases ahead of his anticipated second term, adding a layer of intrigue and complexity to his political future.
2
Trump faced two assassination attempts this year, further heightening the stakes as he navigates his comeback in the political arena.
$277 million
Elon Musk reportedly spent $277 million to support Trump and affiliated groups, showcasing the influence of wealthy individuals on political outcomes.
