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The state has witnessed a growing Asian and Hispanic population in recent years, although they still form a smaller portion of the electorate. This increasing diversity may influence Tennessee’s voting trends, but its political inclination remains largely conservative. read more
The 2020 United States presidential election in Tennessee was held on Tuesday, November 3, 2020, as part of the 2020 United States presidential election in which all 50 states plus the District of Columbia participated. Tennessee voters chose electors to represent them in the Electoral College via a popular vote, pitting the Republican Party’s nominee, incumbent President Donald Trump and running mate Vice President Mike Pence against Democratic Party nominee, former Vice President Joe Biden, and his running mate, California Senator Kamala Harris. Tennessee has 11 electoral votes in the Electoral College.
Republicans dominate the state, holding both US Senate seats, 8 out of 9 Congressional seats, 75 out of 99 state House seats, and 27 out of 33 state Senate seats. Democratic strongholds are limited to urban areas like Nashville, Memphis, and parts of Knoxville, Chattanooga, and Clarksville.
The state shifted towards the GOP mainly because of rural white voters by rejecting the Democratic Party’s increasing liberalism by the early 21st century. This shift was solidified by Republican victories, including George W. Bush’s 14% margin win in 2004 and Ron Ramsey becoming the first Republican Speaker of the State Senate since Reconstruction in 2007.
Voter demographics
Tennessee has a population of over 6.9 million consisting of multiple racial and ethnic groups. Whites contribute approximately 73.5 percent of the state population. The African Americans represent around 17%. The state has witnessed a growing Asian and Hispanic population in recent years, although they still form a smaller portion of the electorate. This increasing diversity may influence Tennessee’s voting trends, but its political inclination remains largely conservative.
Voting history
Historically, Tennessee was a Democratic stronghold, particularly during Andrew Jackson’s era. However, since the mid-20th century, the state has shifted toward the Republican Party. This transition started in the 1960s, coinciding with the Civil Rights Movement, and Tennessee has consistently voted Republican in presidential elections since 2000. In the 2020 election, Donald Trump won Tennessee with a landslide 60.7% margin.
Swing state status and electoral importance
Tennessee is not considered a swing state, as it has kept voting Republican in every presidential poll since 2000. Its conservative leanings, particularly in rural and suburban areas, have solidified its position as a Republican stronghold. Tennessee played an important role in shaping the overall electoral scenario with 11 electoral votes.
Presidential connections
Tennessee has produced three U.S. presidents: Andrew Jackson, James K. Polk, and Andrew Johnson. These presidential connections underscore Tennessee’s significant impact on American political history.
Memorable elections
The 2000 election was pivotal for Tennessee, as native son Al Gore lost the state to George W. Bush. Gore’s loss solidified Tennessee’s Republican shift, highlighting the region’s growing influence of conservative politics. Today, Tennessee is an important part of the Republican electoral coalition, with its historical contributions to the presidency cementing its place in the political history of the United States.
