Why Washington is a bellwether for the presidential election

The Democratic party is riding the Good Vibes Express after its Chicago convention. 

And a look at polling averages gives them reason to celebrate: Since becoming the nominee, Vice President Harris has shaken up a relatively static presidential race: She’s now running slightly ahead of former President Trump nationwide. 

In swing states, she has pulled even in key areas of the sun belt like Georgia and North Carolina. 

Some analysts say you have a more concrete expression of the electorate’s mood coming from right here in Washington State.

In fact, in the last several presidential and midterm elections, Washington state’s primary has developed a reputation as a reliable bellwether for the outcome of national general elections. 

Thank you to the supporters of KUOW, you help make this show possible! If you want to help out, go to kuow.org/donate/soundsidenotes

Soundside is a production of KUOW in Seattle, a proud member of the NPR Network. 

Guest:

• Armin Thomas is a political analyst at Split Ticket, a nonpartisan election analysis firm

Relevant Links:

• A Very Detailed Examination Of The Washington Primary - Split Ticket

Guest:

• Armin Thomas is a political analyst at Split Ticket, a nonpartisan election analysis firm

Relevant Links:

• A Very Detailed Examination Of The Washington Primary - Split Ticket