Election Results and Trends in Columbia, MO
In the last Presidential election, Columbia, MO voted predominantly Democrat, with 54.9% of voters casting their ballot for Biden, while 42.4% of voters in Columbia voted for Trump, and other parties voting 2.7%. Based on these voting patterns, Columbia is considered a slightly leaning liberal city. Specifically, it ranks 164th out of the most populated 333 cities in the United States in terms of conservatism based on the 2020 Presidential election results. Conversely, when looking at the liberal voting patterns in the 2020 election, Columbia ranks 173rd out of the 333 most populated cities, indicating a relatively low liberal vote.
Presidential Elections Voting Trend
Columbia has demonstrated a tilt towards Democrat candidates in Presidential elections over the last 25 years. Notable examples include Bill Clinton in 1996, Al Gore (2000), John Kerry (2004), Barack Obama (2008 and 2012), Hillary Clinton (2016), and Joe Biden in 2020. Home to the University of Missouri, the city's younger and more educated populace has contributed to this pattern.
Local Elections
City-level elections have also inclined towards progressive candidates, particularly for mayor and City Council positions. Initiatives focusing on social justice, environment, and community development have found support in Columbia, reflecting a liberal trend in local governance.