Joe Biden wins the 2020 presidential election
Joe Biden was declared the winner of the 2020 presidential election after a closely contested race against incumbent Donald Trump. The announcement came as ballots continued to be counted in key battleground states including Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Nevada. Biden's victory was marked by high voter turnout, with millions participating early due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The election was seen as a referendum on Trump's policies and handling of various issues.
Joe Biden received over 81 million votes.
Donald Trump received about 74 million votes.
Biden announced Kamala Harris as his running mate.
Historic voter turnout at 66.7% of eligible voters.
What Happened?
Joe Biden was declared the winner of the 2020 United States presidential election, defeating incumbent President Donald Trump. This election followed a tumultuous political climate marked by heightened partisanship, social unrest, and a global pandemic. Throughout the days leading up to the announcement, states such as Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Arizona were pivotal, with their counts being closely monitored. As more mail-in ballots were counted, Biden's lead expanded, affirming his victory. Voter enthusiasm was palpable, as turnout reached historic levels, with over 159 million Americans casting their votes, representing about 66.7% of the eligible voter population. The significant early voting facilitated by the pandemic allowed both candidates to campaign effectively, albeit within a limited scope due to health concerns.
Biden's victory signified a shift in political sentiment among the American electorate, with many voting against Trump's approach to major issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, racial justice, and climate change. The emotions following the announcement were mixed across the nation, with celebrations erupting in cities like New York and Philadelphia, contrasting with protests from Trump supporters who claimed electoral fraud without substantial evidence. The election was consequential for not just the presidency but also for the future of American governance, highlighting the critical role of mail-in voting and the challenges faced by the electoral process in unprecedented times.
The aftermath of the election saw significant legal challenges by the Trump campaign in several states, questioning the validity of votes and alleging widespread fraud, which was largely dismissed in court reviews. Biden announced plans for several key appointments and policy directions that aimed to restore normalcy and address the pressing needs of a nation deeply affected by the previous administration's decisions.
Why Does it Matter?
This event is interesting because it marked a decisive moment in American political history, signifying a shift in power after four years of a controversial presidency. Biden's election could lead to substantial changes in policy direction, impacting domestic and foreign relations significantly. The event highlighted the importance of civic engagement and set a new precedent for future elections in terms of mail-in voting and the use of technology.