What's happened
As the 2024 elections approach, a notable trend of ticket-splitting emerges in key swing states. Polls indicate that some Trump supporters are backing Democratic Senate candidates, potentially impacting the balance of power in Congress. This dynamic could influence the presidential race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the New York Times, polling indicates that 'an average of 7 percent of likely voters who plan to support Mr. Trump for president also said they planned to cast a ballot for a Democrat in their state’s Senate race.' This highlights a significant trend of ticket-splitting, particularly in battleground states like Arizona, where 10% of Trump supporters are considering voting for Democratic candidate Ruben Gallego.
Business Insider UK notes that 'swing-state Democrats running in the most competitive Senate races were generally leading in the polls,' suggesting that the dynamics of the presidential race may not directly translate to down-ballot races. This divergence could be crucial for the Democrats' strategy in maintaining control of the Senate.
Kellen Browning from the New York Times emphasizes that 'Trump creates his own weather,' indicating that while Trump maintains strong support, it does not necessarily benefit all Republican candidates, particularly those with more extreme views. This sentiment is echoed in the analysis of voter demographics, where younger and Latino voters are showing a willingness to split their tickets, favoring moderate Democratic candidates over their Republican counterparts.
How we got here
Historically, ticket-splitting was common in U.S. elections, but it has become rare in recent years. The 2024 elections feature competitive Senate races in swing states where voters are increasingly distinguishing between presidential and down-ballot candidates.
Common question
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What is Ticket Splitting and Why is it Increasing in U.S. Elections?
As the 2024 elections approach, a notable trend of ticket-splitting is emerging, particularly in key swing states. This phenomenon, where voters choose candidates from different parties for different offices, is gaining traction among voters, including some Trump supporters backing Democratic Senate candidates. Understanding this trend is crucial for grasping the dynamics of the upcoming elections and their potential impact on the balance of power in Congress.
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What are the biggest news stories this week?
This week has been marked by significant events that have captured global attention. From tragic mass shootings in South Africa to a chemical leak in Ohio, these stories highlight pressing issues in society today. Below, we explore the key events and their implications, as well as emerging trends and what to watch for in the coming days.
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Arizona is a state in the southwestern region of the United States. It is also part of the Western and the Mountain states. It is the 6th largest and the 14th most populous of the 50 states. Its capital and largest city is Phoenix.
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Ruben Marinelarena Gallego is an American politician who is the U.S. Representative for Arizona's 7th congressional district. A Democrat, he previously served as a member of the Arizona House of Representatives, serving as assistant minority leader in the
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