Contested 2020 U.S. Presidential Election
The 2020 United States presidential election saw Democratic nominee Joe Biden and Republican incumbent Donald Trump compete in a highly polarized political environment. With the election taking place amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant increase in mail-in voting. On November 7, Biden was declared the winner, marking a pivotal moment in American politics as he secured key battleground states, leading to his eventual victory in the Electoral College and the popular vote.
Record voter turnout during the election.
COVID-19 influenced voting methods heavily.
Biden won key battleground states.
Allegations of voter fraud emerged post-election.
What Happened?
The election cycle of 2020 was marked by unprecedented circumstances, chiefly the COVID-19 pandemic, which fundamentally altered traditional campaigning methods. Joe Biden, representing the Democratic Party, campaigned on a platform of unity and rebuilding amid the crisis, while incumbent President Donald Trump emphasized continued economic recovery and a strong America. The election also highlighted issues such as racial inequality, healthcare, and climate change, resonating with a deeply divided electorate.
Voting began early in many states due to the pandemic, with a surge in absentee and mail-in ballots, leading to a prolonged counting process. As Americans cast their votes, record turnout was observed, fueled by intense engagement and polarizing sentiments. When the results began to roll in, it quickly became evident that Biden was gaining ground in pivotal states that had historically leaned Republican, such as Wisconsin, Michigan, and Pennsylvania.
On November 7, following days of counting, media outlets declared Biden the winner of the election based on his lead in these battleground states, enveloping the nation in a wave of reactions. Biden’s victory not only signified a shift in leadership but also reflected widespread discontent with the handling of the pandemic and other social issues. Trump and his supporters, however, raised numerous allegations of voter fraud, entrenching the divisions in the country. The election cycle set the stage for significant political discussions and challenges ahead, particularly regarding electoral integrity and voter rights.
Why Does it Matter?
The 2020 presidential election is noteworthy for several reasons, primarily the record voter turnout and the shift in political dynamics in various regions of the U.S. It spotlighted deep divisions within the electorate, emphasizing the growing polarization of American politics. Biden's election has prompted discussions around various social and economic issues, setting the agenda for upcoming years. Additionally, the manner in which the election was conducted, primarily through mail-in voting due to health concerns, raised questions about the future of electoral processes in the United States, potentially influencing how future elections are administered and perceived.