RNS: As the U.S. presidential election enters a critical phase, early vote counts show Republican candidate Donald Trump in the lead with 172 electoral votes, while his Democratic rival, Kamala Harris, has secured 81 votes, according to media reports. Both candidates are now focused on reaching the crucial threshold of 270 electoral votes needed to win the White House.
Initial vote tallies reflect outcomes in states that have traditionally favoured each party, but the race is expected to hinge on the results from key battleground states such as Pennsylvania, Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, and Wisconsin. These states will likely play a decisive role in determining who will become the 47th president of the United States.
On election day, voter turnout was exceptionally high, with Americans casting ballots in what has become one of the most hotly contested elections in recent history. Trump, who voted in Florida, expressed confidence about his chances of reclaiming the presidency. Speaking to reporters outside a polling station in West Palm Beach, the former president emphasized the strength of his campaign and reaffirmed his commitment to accept the results if the election is deemed fair.
“I ran a great campaign, and I’m very confident,” Trump said. “If I lose an election, if it’s a fair election, I would be the first one to acknowledge it. So far, I think it’s been fair.”
According to exit polls, key issues such as democracy, abortion rights, immigration policies, and the economy have significantly influenced voter decisions.
Although voting concluded on Tuesday, the final result may not be determined for several days. Tight margins in several swing states are expected to delay the tallying and final certification of votes.
