Preliminary exit polls from the 2024 presidential election reveal widespread economic dissatisfaction and deep concerns about American democracy, according to ABC News data released on election night.
The state of democracy emerged as voters' top concern among five key issues tested, with 35% ranking it as their primary consideration. Economic matters followed closely at 31%, while abortion (14%), immigration (11%), and foreign policy (4%) rounded out voters' main priorities.
The data shows a nation grappling with significant challenges, as just 26% of voters expressed enthusiasm or satisfaction with the country's direction, compared to 72% who reported feeling dissatisfied or angry. Nearly three-quarters of voters (73%) view American democracy as threatened rather than secure (25%).
In the crucial swing states, between 68% and 73% of voters expressed concern about threats to democracy. This sentiment crossed partisan lines in Georgia, where 81% of voters expressed confidence in their state's election integrity, including 94% of Democrats, 78% of independents, and 72% of Republicans.
The economy remains a significant source of voter anxiety. Two-thirds of voters (67%) describe the economy as being in poor condition, while 45% report worse personal financial situations compared to four years ago - exceeding the 42% recorded during the 2008 financial crisis.
President Joe Biden faces challenges with a 41% approval rating, which is the lowest for an incumbent president in exit polls since President George W Bush's 27% in 2008. This has complicated Vice President Kamala Harris' campaign efforts to distinguish her agenda from the current administration.
The preliminary data reveals complex dynamics in voter perceptions of the candidates. Former President Donald Trump Trump faces favorability ratings of 44%-55%, while Vice President Harris stands at 48%-50%. Notably, 55% of voters consider Trump's views "too extreme," compared to 46% for Harris.
More voters favor Harris on abortion policy, while Trump holds an advantage on immigration and economic issues. Support for legal abortion reaches 66% nationally, with majority backing across all seven swing states ranging from 60% to 69%.
