Final answer:
Donald Trump's victory in the 2016 U.S. presidential election against Hillary Clinton surprised many due to the discrepancy between poll predictions and election results. Various factors influenced the election, including last-minute scandals and concerns about Russian interference.
Step-by-step explanation:
In 2016, Donald Trump won the presidential election in the United States, a result that came as a surprise to many. Despite the majority of polls favoring Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton, Trump secured the presidency by winning the necessary electoral votes. Elections can be unpredictable due to various factors, including last-minute events such as the re-opening of the FBI investigation into Clinton's emails and the release of the Access Hollywood tape related to Trump, which may have influenced voter decisions.
Additionally, the question of Russian interference became a significant discourse with potential implications for the election's integrity. The 2016 election's outcome emphasizes that political science constantly evolves and learns from its analyses and forecasts.
Public opinion often plays a critical role in elections, reflecting a candidate's level of support and likelihood of implementing their agenda. Presidents typically attempt to sway public opinion towards their positions, especially when they enjoy high approval ratings. Trump's win demonstrates the complex nature of American elections, where the popular vote does not always align with the Electoral College's decision, as seen with Clinton winning the national popular vote but Trump winning the presidency.