What Does Bellwether State Mean?

A bellwether is a leader or an indicator of trends. The term derives from the Middle English bellewether and refers to the practice of placing a bell around the neck of a castrated ram (a wether) leading a flock of sheep. ... Bellwether stocks therefore serve as short-term guides.

Is Florida a bellwether state?

In national elections, Florida plays an important role as the largest bellwether state, occasionally determining the outcome of elections for U.S. President — as it did in 1876 and in 2000.

What was the closest US presidential election?

The 1960 presidential election was the closest election since 1916, and this closeness can be explained by a number of factors.