InHouse America

Polling vs. Reality: The Disconnect Between Public Opinion and Election Outcomes in the U.S.

By InHouse America Staff | Data Analytics

Published: 2:30 pm (GMT-5), Thu September 26, 2024

2 Minute Read

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Hillary Clinton vs. Donald Trump (2016)

(Polling Data)

In the 2016 election, Hillary Clinton led Donald Trump by 3.2% in national polls (46.8% vs. 43.6%) (RealClearPolitics). In Michigan, she had a 3% lead, and in Wisconsin, she led by 6%.

(Polling Insights)

However, Trump flipped both states, winning Michigan by 0.3% and Wisconsin by 0.7%. Notably, he won the electoral votes in 30 states, underscoring the importance of state-level dynamics.


(Election Results)

Clinton won the popular vote by 2.9 million (48.2% vs. 46.1%). The final electoral vote count was Trump 304, Clinton 227. Women supported Clinton by 54% compared to Trump’s 42% (Pew Research).

(Election Insights)

Despite this, Trump secured critical voter demographics, including white working-class voters, who swung the election in his favor.


Joe Biden vs. Donald Trump (2020)

(Polling Numbers)

In the 2020 election, Joe Biden led Trump by 7.2% nationally (51.3% vs. 44.1%) (FiveThirtyEight). In Pennsylvania, Biden led by 4.5% and won by 1.2%.

(Polling Insights)

He also made significant gains in suburban areas, which shifted heavily towards the Democrats compared to 2016.


(Election Results)

Biden won the popular vote by 7 million (51.3% vs. 46.8%). The electoral college results showed Biden at 306 and Trump at 232.

(Election Insights)

Women overwhelmingly supported Biden with 57% compared to 42% for Trump (Pew Research). The youth vote also played a crucial role, with 50% of 18-29-year-olds voting for Biden, a substantial increase from 2016.


Kamala Harris vs. Donald Trump (2024 – Projection)

(Current Polls)

As of now, Kamala Harris is polling at 44%, while Trump holds a slight lead at 46% (RealClearPolitics).

(Polling Insights)

In critical swing states like Arizona and Georgia, Harris trails by 2%, highlighting the competitiveness of the race. Additionally, Trump retains strong support among rural voters, with 61% approval in these areas.


(Key Demographics)

Women are projected to support Harris with 58%, mirroring Biden’s 2020 backing (Gallup). However, swing voters, particularly suburban women, are pivotal, where Trump currently leads by a 2-point margin.

(Demographics Insights)

Furthermore, among Hispanic voters, Harris may have an advantage, with 62% of them favoring Democratic candidates in recent surveys (Pew Research).


InHouse America Polling Perspective

(Our Opinion)

At InHouse America, we recognize the vital role polling plays in shaping political narratives, but It's crucial to recognize that polls capture only a momentary reflection of public opinion..

(Further Insights)

They can often misrepresent the true sentiment of voters. History shows that turnout is what ultimately decides elections, so regardless of polling numbers, every voice matters. We encourage everyone to engage in the democratic process—go out, make your voice heard, and vote! Your participation can influence the future of our communities and the country.


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