In a decisive turn in the race, Donald Trump clinched North Carolina and its 16 Electoral College votes, giving the Republican camp a major boost.
This victory marks Trump’s third consecutive win in the key swing state, where both campaigns had fiercely contested in the final days.
North Carolina, a traditionally critical battleground, was the first of seven pivotal swing states to be called. With Trump’s win here, focus shifts to the northern industrial “blue wall” states—Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin—which now present the Democrats’ clearest path to victory, according to Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign chair, Jen O’Malley Dillon.
Turnout in North Carolina reached record highs, with more than 4.2 million residents voting early. Western counties hit by Hurricane Helene even saw an impressive turnout as election officials ensured all could vote despite challenges.
Trump’s win comes amid economic concerns, with exit polls revealing that 36% of North Carolina voters prioritised the economy in their decision—a key factor that heavily favoured Trump, particularly among those feeling financially strained since the 2020 election.
Nationwide, Trump gained momentum with Hispanic and lower-income voters, especially those citing inflation as a concern. He garnered 45% of the Hispanic vote, a 13-point increase from 2020, and saw stronger numbers in suburban Georgia and rural Pennsylvania. As of 11:30 p.m. Eastern, Trump held 227 Electoral College votes, leading Harris at 165.
With only six swing states remaining, both campaigns face a tense wait as the final ballots are counted, keeping the nation’s attention locked on the path to the crucial 270 electoral college votes needed to win.