By Ananya Swaroop
Boston University News Service
As the 2024 election season comes to an end, Massachusetts once again showed its continuing support for Democrats. The state overwhelmingly turned blue, but this election cycle also showcased the developing political landscape in the state. Pockets of Republican support occurred in certain areas, so here is a look at how Massachusetts voted in this historic presidential race.
Massachusetts voting trends: Democrats triumph over Republicans
Massachusetts has invariably inclined towards the Democratic Party in presidential and congressional races. This election was no different as the trend held strong. Around 61.1% of Massachusetts voters cast ballots for Democratic candidates. In contrast, approximately 36.2% of votes went to Republican candidates. 94% expected votes have been counted so far.
Republican support in key regions
Several zip codes saw more Republican votes, highlighting the state’s political diversity. Townships like Agawam (53.7%), Acushnet (71.9%), Berkley (60.5%), Blandford (60.2%), Charlton (55.4%), Brookfield (53.2%) and Florida (53.2%) maintained their conservative stance.
Information taken from: NBC News Election Results
The ballot questions at a glance
In the 2024 Massachusetts elections, voters also looked at several ballot questions that discussed some key issues. Here’s a brief overview of how the votes (96% reporting) were cast by the public on these issues:
Question 1 – Allows audits of the state Legislature: This ballot question would authorize the state auditor to audit the state Legislature. 71.5% of voters approved, while 28.5% opposed.
Question 2 – This ballot measure repeals the requirement for students to pass an academic competency exam called the Massachusetts Comprehensive Assessment System (MCAS) exam to graduate from high school. 59% of voters approved, while 41% opposed.
Question 3 – Allow transportation network drivers to Union General: This ballot measure would let drivers for rideshares, like Uber and Lyft, form unions. 53.9% of voters approved, while 46.1% opposed.
Question 4 – Limited Legalization of Psychedelic Substances: This ballot question sought to decriminalize and regulate certain natural psychedelic substances, such as psilocybin mushrooms, for therapeutic and personal use. 57% of voters opposed, while 43% approved.
Question 5 – Minimum Wage for Tipped Workers: This ballot question proposes gradually increasing the minimum wage for tipped workers to the same level as the standard minimum wage by 2028. 64.2% of voters opposed, while 35.8% approved.
