What we learned from 15 months talking to America’s most crucial voters
As the nation eagerly awaits the outcome of the 2024 presidential election, the voices and concerns of voters across the country are ringing loud and clear. In Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, Shannon Elliott and Kristin Caparra embody the stark political divide that has gripped the nation. While both women share a sense of anxiety and excitement on Election Day, their views on the candidates and the future of the country couldn’t be more different.
Elliott, a mother of two and small business owner, expresses deep concern over the prospect of a Trump presidency. She is troubled by his behavior and the example he sets for the youth of America. In contrast, Caparra, a civil engineer and figure skating instructor, sees Trump as a defender of the values she holds dear and worries about what she perceives as Kamala Harris’ progressive agenda.
The political landscape in Pennsylvania is a microcosm of the larger national picture, with voters like Elliott and Caparra representing the deep divisions that exist within the electorate. The All Over the Map project by CNN has delved into the lives and perspectives of voters across the country, shedding light on the issues that are driving the campaign.
The upcoming election is poised to be a tight race, with unhappy Republicans in Pennsylvania playing a crucial role in determining the outcome. Many voters who may have never considered voting for Trump are now leaning in his direction, citing concerns about the Democratic party’s policies and the leadership of Kamala Harris.
For some voters, like Shanen Ebersole in Iowa and Joseph Knowles in Michigan, the decision to support Trump is based on a desire for change and a belief that the current administration is not delivering on its promises. These voters are willing to overlook Trump’s flaws in favor of what they see as a stronger leadership style and a focus on issues that directly impact their lives.
On the other hand, voters like Michael Pesce in Pennsylvania are hoping for a different outcome, one that sees Harris emerging victorious and Trump fading into obscurity. The strength of the Democratic turnout operation and the support of key demographics, such as Black women, will be crucial in securing a win for Harris.
As the nation braces for the final days of the campaign, the voices of voters like Elliott and Caparra serve as a reminder of the deep-seated divisions that exist within America. The outcome of the election will have far-reaching implications for the future of the country, and the choices made by voters in places like Swarthmore, Pennsylvania, will shape the course of history.
