Pennsylvania, a key battleground state in U.S. elections, has a rich history of swinging between the Republican and Democratic parties over the years. From 1992 to 2012, the state consistently voted Democrat in presidential elections. However, in 2016, the state took a turn when former President Donald Trump narrowly won over former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, marking a departure from its traditional Democratic leanings.
The state's economy, heavily influenced by the ailing steel industry, played a significant role in shaping voter preferences. Many old-school, union Democrats were attracted to Trump's promises of revitalizing manufacturing in the U.S., which resonated with voters in 2016.
In the 2020 election, President Joe Biden managed to reverse the trend by securing Pennsylvania for the Democrats once again. This victory played a crucial role in Biden's overall success in the election.
Pennsylvania's two major metropolitan areas, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, located at opposite ends of the state, have historically been Democratic strongholds. However, the vast expanse of rural cities and towns in between tends to lean Republican, creating a diverse political landscape within the state.
With 20 electoral votes, Pennsylvania holds the most electoral votes among swing states, making it a crucial battleground for presidential candidates. Winning Pennsylvania is often seen as a key factor in securing the White House, highlighting the state's significance in national elections.
