The Black Vote in the Spotlight for the 2024 Presidential Election

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GREENWOOD Dist. — As the U.S. approaches the 2024 presidential election, the spotlight is on the projected 34.4 million Black eligible voters. According to the Pew Research Center, the Black vote turnout rates consistently surpass those of Latino and Asian eligible voters. 

With Black voters potentially wielding significant influence on key election outcomes, particularly in states like Georgia, their voting patterns in the 2020 election demonstrated strong support for the Democratic candidate. 

It is worth noting that only 50% of Black adults expressed approval of President Joe Biden in a recent poll, representing a significant drop from previous levels of support. However, only 25% of Black adults indicated a favorable view of Donald Trump. 

What the data says about Black Eligible Voter Growth

A comprehensive analysis of Black voters in the U.S. sheds light on key demographic trends and geographic distribution. The Pew Research Center’s data reveals that Black voters are expected to represent 14.0% of voters in November 2024, showcasing a slow but steady increase in their percentage over the past two decades. While their number has grown, it remains at a slower rate compared to Asian and Hispanic eligible voters.

Geographically, half of Black voters reside in eight states, with Texas, Georgia, and Florida leading the count. Notably, the Southern region hosts the majority of Black voters. Additionally, the analysis points out that a high proportion of Black Americans are eligible to vote, with 96% being citizens. 

The demographics of Black eligible voters also differ from the overall eligible voter population. While Black voters have lower rates of bachelor’s degrees, they have a higher voter turnout among their women and younger population than the general voter population, which has been crucial for the Democrats. Moreover, their presence and potential impact highlight the significance for both political parties to understand and address the needs and concerns of Black voters in the upcoming elections.

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The Pew Research Center’s analysis, based on projections and data from the U.S. Census Bureau, provides valuable insights into the role and influence of Black eligible voters leading up to the 2024 elections. 

Key Takeaways

• Black Americans are projected to account for 14.0% of eligible voters in the U.S. in the November Presidential 2024.
• As of 2022, about half of Black eligible voters live in one of eight states: Texas, Georgia, Florida, New York, California, Mississippi, Maryland, and Louisiana
• Black voters made up nearly half (45%) of all eligible voters in the District of Columbia in 2022, a higher share than in any state. 
• About seven-in-ten Black people in the U.S. are eligible to vote.
• Black eligible voters differ from the overall population of eligible voters by age, education and other factors.

What both parties are doing to reach the Black Vote.

Notably, both the Republican and Democrat parties are seeking to gain influence with Black voters. The Republican National Committee is establishing outreach centers focused on minority areas. The Biden campaign is rolling out large investments in African American media and other outreach in key swing states and has hired Jasmine Harris who will lead the campaign’s Black media operations, per the The Grio.