- There’s still a lot we don’t know about the outcome of the U.S. election, but one thing is clear: we’re on track to record the highest voter turnout in America since 1908
- This year, over 103 million people cast their ballots before November 3
- Even before election day ballots are considered, that’s almost three-quarters of the 2016 election’s overall turnout
- Overall, it looks like 65 per cent of eligible voters went to the polls in 2020
- But that figure’s still well behind voting rates in developed countries — in 2018’s, 82.1 per cent of Swedish citizens voted in the country’s general election
- Associated Press is also reporting that Joe Biden, who’s inching closer to a presidential victory, has received the most votes out of any presidential candidate in America’s history
In 2020, two divisive candidates took the stage to campaign amid a global pandemic, civil unrest, and widespread uncertainty. But that hasn’t stopped voters from turning out in record-breaking droves to determine who will lead the U.S. for the next four years.
This year, over 103 million people cast their ballots before November 3. Even before Election Day ballots are considered, that’s almost three-quarters of the 2016 election’s overall turnout.
Voting early was a trend across the states. In Kentucky, for example, early voter turnout was thirteen times greater than the numbers four years ago. Similar movements were recorded across Florida, North Carolina and Georgia.
In Missouri, voter numbers were said to pass the three million mark, meaning 70 per cent of registered voters cast their ballots on Tuesday.
Associated Press is also reporting that Joe Biden, who’s inching closer to a presidential victory, has received the most votes out of any presidential candidate in America’s history.
Just after the ASX closed, Biden carried over 72 million votes, surpassing former President Barack Obama’s overall votes.
While incumbent Donald Trump trails the popular vote by around three million ballots, he too is on track to break Obama’s previous record.
“Even in the face of a pandemic, more Americans have voted this year than ever before in American history,” Joe Biden said overnight.
“Over 150 million people cast their votes. I think that’s just extraordinary,” he continued.
Overall, it looks like 65 per cent of eligible voters went to the polls in 2020. But that figure’s still well behind voting rates in developed countries — in 2018, 82.1 per cent of Swedish citizens voted in the country’s general election.
Of course, with record-breaking voting numbers comes further ambiguity. And until key swing states across the country count more ballots, the presidential election will continue to be the race which stops the nation.