Election results shape holiday shopping trends as spending varies by voter support

The 2024 presidential election results are influencing holiday shopping patterns. Supporters of President-elect Donald Trump are optimistic about the economy, leading to increased spending, while those who backed Vice President Kamala Harris are more cautious and plan to spend less. Shipping data shows a significant rise in package volumes in states that Trump won, while Democrat-leaning states experienced declines. Surveys indicate that over half of respondents believe Trump's presidency will positively impact the economy, affecting their holiday spending decisions. Despite the optimism, inflation remains a concern, potentially dampening overall spending. Retail forecasts suggest modest growth, but real sales growth may be much lower when adjusted for inflation, indicating a challenging holiday season ahead.