Nestled in Northwest Washington state, Clallam County, with a population under 880,000, has an uncanny knack for predicting presidential elections. This largely rural county has correctly chosen the winning candidate in every presidential election for the past four decades, a feat unmatched by any other US county.
A Bellwether for the Nation?
Clallam County’s consistent accuracy has earned it a reputation as a bellwether for the nation’s political climate. Since Ronald Reagan’s victory in 1980, voters here have correctly predicted the six Republican and five Democratic presidents. This remarkable streak has piqued the interest of political analysts and pundits seeking insights into the voting patterns of the broader American electorate.
A Diverse Community with Shared Values
What’s the secret behind Clallam County’s electoral clairvoyance? Some residents attribute it to the county’s diverse demographics. “We are a much more diverse county than I think a lot of rural counties are,” says one resident. This diversity of perspectives, they believe, helps create a microcosm of the national electorate.
However, beyond demographics, there’s a palpable sense of community and shared values that transcends political differences. At the local farmers’ market, Democrats and Republicans mingle freely, their political affiliations taking a backseat to their sense of community. “I’m not going to not buy your product because you’re a Democrat or you’re a Republican,” shares a local business owner. “That thought doesn’t even cross most people’s minds.”
The 2020 Election: A Microcosm of National Divides
The 2020 presidential election, however, brought the nation’s deep political divisions to the forefront, even in Clallam County. While the county ultimately maintained its streak by voting for Joe Biden, the margin of victory was significantly narrower than in previous elections, reflecting the heightened polarization across the country.
Sandra Liel, president of Republican Women of Clallam County, believes that a silent majority of Trump supporters remains. She points to what she perceives as a reluctance to publicly express conservative views in a predominantly liberal area.
On the other side of the political spectrum, Eileen Schmitz, a small business owner, voted for Kamala Harris, expressing her belief that the Biden-Harris ticket represented the best hope for preserving the country she loves.
A Community Engaged in the Political Process
Despite their differing political views, Clallam County residents share a common commitment to civic engagement. Local elections see active participation, and residents are not shy about expressing their political views, even if those views run counter to the prevailing sentiment.
Rachel Anderson, deputy mayor of Sequim, Washington, and retiree Donna Mlan, actively campaigned for Kamala Harris, attending rallies and engaging in conversations with fellow residents. Their efforts highlight the passionate engagement with which many residents approach the political process.
Looking Ahead: Will the Streak Continue?
As the nation moves beyond the 2020 election, the question remains: will Clallam County maintain its remarkable presidential prediction streak? The county’s unique blend of demographic diversity, strong community values, and active political engagement suggests that it will continue to serve as a valuable bellwether for understanding the evolving political landscape of the United States.
Whether or not the streak continues, Clallam County provides a compelling case study in the dynamics of American politics at the local level. It highlights the importance of civic engagement, respectful dialogue, and recognizing shared values, even in the face of political differences.
