Why were so many states so close?

[darklordoftech]

In Florida, New Mexico, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Oregon, the winner won by less than 0.5%, and in New Hampshire, the winner won by 1.27%. Why were so many states so close?

[One Term Floridian]

2000 was probably the last presidential election before the red vs. blue polarization really set in as it was before 9/11, gay marriage and various other social issues essentially took over the campaign narrative. As such, you were able to have a lot of close states all over the country.

States within 5% or less:
2000: 13
2004: 11
2008: 7
2012: 4
2016: 12