In a pivotal moment for the 2024 U.S. presidential election, former President Donald Trump has solidified his lead by clinching victories in the battleground states of North Carolina and Georgia.

This significant achievement not only enhances his path to reclaiming the White House but also leaves Democratic candidate Kamala Harris with a challenging road ahead.

As the dust settles on Tuesday’s election results, Trump has garnered a commanding 246 Electoral College votes, while Harris trails with 182. A candidate requires at least 270 votes to secure the presidency, making Trump’s recent wins critical in the ongoing battle for control.

Also Read: “No matter the outcome, our administration is prepared to work with a new president to defend our city’s values” — Mayor Adams

The victories in North Carolina and Georgia, each contributing 16 electoral votes, have narrowed Harris’s options significantly. With Trump showing resilience across various demographics—including a notable increase in support from Hispanic voters—Harris is now heavily reliant on the “blue wall” states of Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, where she is currently trailing.

According to exit polls, Trump captured 45% of the Hispanic vote, a substantial gain from his previous performance in 2020, and dominated among voters prioritizing economic concerns.

About 31% of voters indicated the economy as their top issue, and a striking 79% of them cast their ballots for Trump, especially those feeling financially worse off than four years ago.

In a somber atmosphere at her watch party at Howard University, Harris’s supporters began to leave as the night unfolded.

A campaign insider shared that a top ally had instructed supporters to disperse, reflecting the growing uncertainty surrounding her campaign. “We will continue overnight to fight to make sure that every vote is counted,” said Cedric Richmond, co-chair of the Harris campaign, pledging to keep the momentum alive.