President-elect Donald Trump’s victory in the 2024 election was fueled by voters’ deep anxieties about the economy and illegal immigration, according to a recent survey of more than 120,000 voters nationwide. Trump’s supporters, including lower-income voters, middle-income voters, and voters without college degrees, prioritized their family budgets over concerns about the future of democracy. Vice President Kamala Harris, on the other hand, focused on rallying voters around abortion rights, but her strategy did not resonate with key demographics.
Economically vulnerable voters were more likely to back Trump, with those feeling anxious about their economic circumstances opting for the former president. Trump won decisively among voters who felt their family finances were falling behind, as well as those concerned about the cost of food, housing, and healthcare. An increase in the number of voters falling behind financially compared to 2020 contributed to Trump’s support base, along with his strong stance on addressing inflation and job creation.
Trump’s hardline policies on illegal immigration also resonated with voters, with a significant portion expressing support for deporting immigrants who are in the country illegally. Concerns about the impact of illegal immigration on communities were particularly high in states like Ohio, where Trump’s messaging around the issue found traction. Despite some differences in opinion among various demographic groups, Trump’s stance on immigration helped solidify his support among voters who prioritize border security.
The divide between higher-income and lower-income Americans was evident in the election results, with Trump making slight gains among voters with household incomes below $100,000 per year. In contrast, Harris maintained support among higher-income voters. However, Trump’s focus on addressing the economic concerns of working-class Americans ultimately led to his success in retaining key demographic groups, despite some reservations about whether he looked out for people like them.
The survey conducted by NORC at the University of Chicago for Fox News, PBS NewsHour, The Wall Street Journal, and The Associated Press provides valuable insights into the factors that influenced the 2024 election outcome. Trump’s appeal to voters’ economic anxieties and concerns about illegal immigration played a significant role in his victory, highlighting the importance of understanding and addressing the needs of diverse voter demographics. As the country looks towards the future, the results of this election serve as a reminder of the complex issues that shape political preferences and the importance of engaging with a wide range of perspectives.
