Pollster Frank Luntz highlighted that President-elect Trump’s win over Vice President Harris represents a crucial shift, particularly in the GOP’s reach among “paycheck-to-paycheck” voters. Luntz indicated that this trend should be an unsettling signal for the Democratic Party.
Winning the popular vote for the first time across three presidential bids, Trump secured the loyalty of working-class voters, allowing him to claim victory in all seven swing states, from the Midwest to the Sun Belt.
“That image, that map should be an alarming sign for every Democrat because it’s not just a win; it’s a total sweep, and it reveals the frailty of the Democratic Party’s current position,” Luntz commented on NewsNation on Wednesday.
Trump’s popular vote victory reflects a broader shift in allegiance from working-class Democrats to the GOP
Trump exceeded expectations in Republican strongholds like Alabama and made surprising inroads in traditionally Democratic states, including New Jersey and Illinois.
According to Luntz, Trump’s success stemmed from his appeal to working-class voters, uniting a diverse range of people beyond just race or gender.
“This is a group that has historically leaned Democrat, but Trump managed to connect with them in a way no other Republican has,” Luntz noted. “These voters aren’t just from one demographic; they’re paycheck-to-paycheck Americans from all backgrounds.”
He further emphasized that regardless of demographic, those struggling financially found resonance with Trump. “This kind of support hasn’t been seen since Ronald Reagan in 1984, nearly four decades ago,” Luntz added.
Trump’s strong appeal among low-income earners helped him capture vital states, boosting his election momentum. Luntz predicts that this momentum will assist Republicans in retaining control of the House following their Senate majority win.
Analysts attribute Trump’s popularity to the faith voters have in his economic approach. Despite his often polarizing statements, Luntz noted that Trump’s determined, even confrontational style made him a figure of confidence for those seeking change.
“Voters supporting him believe he’ll deliver on his promises and bring huge, lasting change to Washington,” Luntz said. “It’s striking, given how much energy Harris initially brought to the campaign, making it seem like she might capture the country.”
