Rational Ground by Justin Hart

Rational Ground by Justin Hart

RG Politics

ONE WEEK! Here's Your Guide to Election Night

Justin Hart's avatar
Justin Hart
Oct 29, 2024
∙ Paid

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This analysis examines 24 years of presidential election data (2000-2020) through a Republican strategic lens, identifying the critical county-level thresholds needed for a GOP victory in 2024. By analyzing historical trends, demographic shifts, and recent voting patterns, we've identified key markers that would signal a Republican path to 270 electoral votes.

Understanding the Strategic Framework

Why County-Level Analysis Matters

The 2024 election, like 2016 and 2020, will likely be decided by narrow margins in a handful of swing states. County-level analysis provides earlier and more granular indicators than statewide numbers. For Republicans, understanding these patterns is crucial because:

  1. GOP victory requires overperforming in rural/exurban areas to offset Democratic urban advantages

  2. Suburban shifts can be detected at the county level before they appear in state totals

  3. Hispanic and working-class voter trends appear first in specific counties

The Mathematics of Victory

For a Republican victory, the formula typically requires:

  • Rural margins 8-12 points better than 2020

  • Suburban losses no worse than 2016 levels

  • Hispanic support at least 8-10 points higher than 2020

  • Working-class white turnout matching or exceeding 2016

Key Early Warning Systems

SPREADSHEET BELOW

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