In 1789, George Washington (Independent) won 69 of 138 electoral votes, defeating John Adams by 35 EV during the First Party System era. In 2024, Donald Trump (Republican) won 312 of 538, defeating Kamala Harris by 86 EV during the Modern Polarization era. Turnout: 11.6% vs 64.1%.
vs
1789
First Party System
George Washington
Independent
Electoral votes
69 of 138
EV margin
35
Popular vote
—
Turnout
11.6%
Runner-up
John Adams (Fed)
The first presidential election under the new Constitution was held in early 1789. George Washington was unanimously chosen by all 69 electors who cast votes, making him the only president ever elected without opposition. John Adams received the second-highest total and became the first Vice President. Several electors did not vote, reducing the total from 138 possible votes.
2024
Modern Polarization
Donald Trump
Republican
Electoral votes
312 of 538
EV margin
86
Popular vote
49.8%
Turnout
64.1%
Runner-up
Kamala Harris (Dem)
Donald Trump won a decisive comeback victory, becoming the first president since Grover Cleveland to win non-consecutive terms. Biden had dropped out of the race in July 2024 and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris, who became the first woman of color nominated by a major party for president. Trump swept all seven key battleground states and also won the popular vote — the first Republican to do so since 2004. Harris conceded on election night, congratulating Trump on his victory.