Race to 270

ProHub Comment

This is a complex optimization case requiring strong quantitative reasoning and structured problem-solving under time pressure. The case tests the candidate's ability to work with large datasets, perform comparative analysis across multiple variables, and ultimately deliver a recommendation that acknowledges client constraints while being realistic about outcomes. The ethical dimension—supporting a client regardless of personal political views—is also a key learning objective.

Estimated Time 15 minutes
Difficulty Hard
Source Columbia
50 / 100
The United States Presidential election is 2 weeks from today. Our client is the campaign manager for President Rump who is seeking re-election and is locked in a tight race with Former Vice President Widen. The US presidential election is decided by a general election which earns each candidate electoral votes. States are given electoral votes based upon their population ranging from 55 for California to 3 for 8 states. With a total of 538 electoral votes at stake, a candidate needs to earn 270 to win the election outright. A candidate wins the electoral votes by 50 popular-vote elections in each state. This allows every state to matter as for the most part, candidates and their parties are unable to predict which will be the key swing states. What factors would you consider in advising our client on how to pursue winning the election?

Clarifying Information

  1. What is the goal of the client? To win the election
  2. What political party is Rump? Republican
  3. What time does it need to be completed by? The election is 2 weeks away
  4. How much of the population is of voting age? 75%
  5. Of the eligible voters, how many will vote? 2/3
  6. Current Projected Electoral Votes that are guaranteed to go to each candidate: Rump - 162, Widen - 176