Trump wins North Carolina, edging closer to political comeback
Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, has secured a crucial victory in the pivotal state of North Carolina, according to Edison Research projections, taking a significant step toward a potential second non-consecutive term.
With a lead of 230 Electoral College votes compared to the 210 of his rival, Democrat Kamala Harris, Trump is edging closer to a surprising political comeback. However, the results remain uncertain in six other battleground states that will ultimately decide the outcome of the race.
Trump has gained additional support from Hispanic voters and those with lower incomes, groups that have been particularly affected by the rising cost of living in recent years. According to exit polls, 45% of Hispanic voters backed Trump, reflecting a 13% increase from the 2020 election. Amid growing economic concerns, approximately 31% of voters indicated that the economy is their top priority, with 79% of them choosing Trump.
Harris faces a narrow path to victory, as she needs to win all three states in the so-called "Rust Belt" – Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin – where she is currently trailing.
In addition to the presidential race, the Republican Party has secured a majority in the Senate, winning key seats in West Virginia and Ohio. The battle for control of the House of Representatives remains tight, although Republicans currently hold a narrow majority.
The election has been tense, with Trump accusing fraud in major cities controlled by Democrats, such as Philadelphia and Detroit.
The final result of the election is expected to set a historic precedent, either by electing the first woman and the first person of colour and South Asian origin to the presidency, or by bringing Trump back, who would become the first president in the last century to be elected for non-consecutive terms.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
