2024 has seen a surge of anti-establishment sentiment in Europe, as elections in Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, and beyond highlighted public dissatisfaction with incumbent leaders. This push for change may carry weight as the U.S. approaches its own presidential election, where themes of “change versus establishment” could shape the final outcome.
In Germany, Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s coalition faced mounting backlash, with far-right and far-left populist parties gaining ground in regional elections. Similar frustration emerged in France, where the far-right National Rally surged, forcing President Emmanuel Macron to call snap elections. Likewise, the U.K. saw Labour’s sweeping victory over the Conservatives after years of Tory governance. Throughout Europe, voters increasingly gravitated towards populist, non-traditional parties, signaling a widespread desire for a break from the status quo.
In the U.S., Kamala Harris and the Democrats face a similar mood. With 61% of American voters believing the country is on the wrong path, polls indicate dissatisfaction with President Biden’s performance, sparking worry for Harris as she vies to succeed him. Although her campaign has championed a “future-focused” approach, a recent NBC poll found that only 25% of Americans believe Biden’s policies benefit families, fueling potential for an anti-incumbent wave similar to Europe’s trend.
As Harris faces off against Donald Trump, observers note her challenge to rally support amid voter fatigue with Washington, a challenge magnified by Europe’s recent turn towards non-establishment voices.
