In the 2020 U.S. election, Donald Trump won 2,564 counties representing just 29% of the national GDP, compared to the 71% share in the 520 mostly urban counties won by Joe Biden. While a similar trend unfolded in 2024, Trump made notable gains which expanded the Republican economic base.
In a new analysis, Mark Muro and Shriya Methkupally discuss the 2024 election results and the implications for America’s economic divide.
Trump’s winning base in 2,523 counties represents 87% of the nation’s total counties but 40% of the nation’s GDP. Kamala Harris’ losing base of 376 counties represents 60% of the GDP.
More research and commentary
An SOS about America’s children and families. The incoming Trump administration will have an opportunity to push legislation through Congress that can lower prices for all Americans—especially working families. Sweta Shah and Kathy Hirsh-Pasek highlight three policy areas to focus on.
Geopolitics and emerging market capital flows. The rise in geopolitical risk and mounting trade tensions should have a counterpart in financial deglobalization, as investors pull back from trouble spots around the world. Robin Brooks examines the trends.
About Brookings
The Brookings Institution is a nonprofit organization based in Washington, D.C. Our mission is to conduct in-depth, nonpartisan research to improve policy and governance at local, national, and global levels. If you were forwarded this email, sign up for the Brookings Brief to stay updated on our latest work.
The Brookings Institution,1775 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036
The conclusions and recommendations of any Brookings publication are solely those of its author(s), and do not reflect the views of the Institution, its management, or its other scholars.
