The Republican Party candidate, Donald Trump, is just 24 electoral votes away from securing a second term as President of the United States.
As of the latest results, Trump has amassed 246 electoral college votes, while his Democratic Party challenger, Vice President Kamala Harris, trails behind with 210 electoral college votes.
With a total of 538 electoral votes in play, a candidate needs at least 270 to clinch the US presidency. The race, described as “too close to call” before mail-in ballots were counted, has lived up to expectations, remaining fiercely competitive throughout.
Trump has also been projected to win the key battleground state of North Carolina and the crucial swing state of Georgia, further solidifying his lead. With these victories, Harris faced a steep uphill battle.
At Harris’ campaign headquarters, a “hush” has reportedly fallen over the team, with no further statements expected until all results are finalised. Various news outlets confirmed that the campaign will not be engaging with the press until the outcome is clear.
LEADERSHIP reports that Trump’s campaign centered on issues like immigration, border security, and inflation—key topics that have resonated with his base. “Tighten the border” and “root out illegal immigrants” have been central promises of his re-election bid. The former president also frequently criticised the Democratic Party as “weak.”
In contrast, Harris focused her campaign on reproductive rights for women and fostering what she called an “opportunity economy.” She entered the race in July, following President Joe Biden’s faltering debate performance in June.
Harris drew significant support from key figures, including former President Barack Obama and a range of celebrities who have campaigned on her behalf.
In addition to the 2024 US presidential race, the Republican Party is projected to take control of the Senate, further solidifying their influence.
As the final votes trickled in, the outcome remained uncertain, but Trump’s lead put him within striking distance of the White House. The world watched closely as the historic race near a close.
