In this episode of Hawk Droppings, host Hawk interviews Will Westmoreland, a seasoned political consultant with over 30 years of experience in U.S. elections. Westmoreland shares his background, from early campaign roles, including the Clinton-Gore campaign in 1992, to his current consulting work, providing insights into voter outreach, campaign strategy, and how the political landscape has evolved over the decades. With a critical Election Day approaching, Hawk and Westmoreland delve into the mechanics of polling, early voting trends, and the overall anxiety surrounding the political divide in the U.S.

Westmoreland explains the intricacies of modern polling, addressing common misunderstandings by outlining how methodologies have adapted, especially since the 2016 and 2020 elections. He highlights the role of early voting and voter demographics, particularly noting the contrast in voting trends before and after COVID-19. A recurring theme is the importance of voter outreach efforts, or "get-out-the-vote" (GOTV) campaigns, which Westmoreland argues are pivotal in swing states like Pennsylvania and North Carolina. The conversation also covers obstacles posed by state legislation that can delay vote counting, potentially influencing perceptions of Election Day outcomes.

In addition to the technical aspects, the episode addresses the political and cultural factors driving voter behavior. Westmoreland and Hawk discuss how candidates' strategies, including appeals to specific demographics, are shaping the race, while also touching on the role of social media platforms like TikTok in voter mobilization. They close with a look at potential outcomes in key states, examining factors that could affect results on Election Day. Their analysis offers listeners both practical and critical perspectives on the 2024 election, providing a nuanced understanding of the factors at play in the current political landscape.

Find Will on TikTok here: https://www.tiktok.com/@westmoreland_pops

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