Donald Trump defied exit poll predictions in the US presidential election, taking an early lead over Kamala Harris. Millions voted on Tuesday, choosing between granting Harris a historic win or reinstating Trump for a second non-consecutive term.
Despite initial exit polls favouring Harris, Trump secured key strongholds, including Florida, leading in ten states with 101 electoral votes, while Harris captured five states totalling 71 votes. Both aim for the necessary 270 electoral college votes to clinch the presidency.
NBC News exit polls showed 48% of voters had a favourable view of Harris compared to 44% for Trump. Voters prioritized democracy and the economy as the leading issues, with 34% and 31%, respectively, followed by abortion and immigration.
CNN’s exit poll revealed significant discontent, with approximately three-quarters of voters expressing frustration or anger with the country’s direction.
However, exit polls can be unreliable, and outcomes may shift as more data becomes available.
The election is pivotal: Harris could become the first female, Black, and South Asian American president. Alternatively, Trump could make history as the first president impeached twice and the first criminally convicted former president to win a non-consecutive term.
