Critical Analysis

Find answers to the following questions using the visual above, any links below, your big brain, and your knowledge of American government and politics:

1. According to the visual, since 1976, what has been the most reliably Republican state and the most reliably Democratic state (or district)?

2. Overall, since 1976, in which party’s direction has the nation changed more?

3. Overall, since 1976, are states more likely to change parties or stay the same?

4. Why do you think that is?

5. What is one political consequence of this?

6. My state, North Carolina (the best state ever) is considered a swing state but it’s only voted blue (Democratic) twice since 1976. What makes it a swing state?

7. In general, do you think swing states or non-swing states are more politically powerful?

8. What state goes the farthest back in the history of presidential elections without changing their vote from one party to the other?

9. What information that is missing from this chart would be necessary to know who won each presidential election?

10. Do you think it is fair to call this country the United States of America?

Write and Discuss

Take ten minutes to write about the question at the top of the page and then discuss with your classmates.

Act on your Learning

The next election will be here sooner than you can imagine. If you are reading this you might just be eligible to vote in the next big election. The people who you elect will decide how much to tax you and your fellow Americans. Register to vote now.

Get Creative

Add another line to the visual that includes the statewide results of the 2020 presidential election.

Learning Extension

Check out more Visual Capitalist data on states and elections.

Glossary