The United States is gearing up for one of the most closely watched events on the global stage: the 2024 presidential election.
Set for November 5, this election will determine not only the country's next president but also shape the future direction of US policy, both domestically and internationally.
The election will be a significant moment, as it will also involve the election of key members of Congress, who will play a critical role in shaping the nation's laws and policies.
The importance of the 2024 election
The US presidential election is always a focal point of global attention, given the United States' significant influence on world affairs. In addition to the president, American citizens will be voting for members of Congress, whose decisions directly impact the lives of millions of people. The importance of this election is underscored by the power the US president holds, not just in domestic matters but also in international diplomacy and global leadership.
The newly elected president will assume office in January 2025, following an inauguration ceremony. The role comes with a four-year term, during which the president will have the authority to shape the country's policies. While the president has the power to pass certain laws through executive orders, most legislation requires collaboration with Congress. This highlights the importance of the congressional elections, which will take place simultaneously.
Who are the presidential candidates?
In the US, presidential candidates are typically nominated through a series of primaries and caucuses held by the two major political parties, the Democrats and the Republicans. These events are crucial as they determine who will lead their party into the presidential election.
For the 2024 election, the Republican Party has once again nominated former President Donald Trump, who secured his position after a commanding lead over his rivals. Trump's nomination was officially announced in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, marking his return as the party's standard-bearer.
On the Democratic side, Vice President Kamala Harris has stepped into the race following President Joe Biden's decision not to seek re-election. Harris's entry into the race was uncontested within her party, making her the official candidate for the Democrats.
In addition to the major party candidates, the 2024 election will also feature independent candidates. Among them, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a prominent figure due to his family legacy as the nephew of former President John F. Kennedy, initially launched a campaign. However, he suspended his campaign at the end of August 2024, throwing his support behind Donald Trump.
The agendas: Democrats vs. Republicans
The 2024 election is not just about choosing a president but also about deciding the direction of the country's policies. The two major parties, the Democrats and the Republicans, have distinctly different platforms.
The Democratic Party, known for its liberal stance, emphasizes civil rights, a robust social safety net, and aggressive action to combat climate change. Their platform focuses on expanding healthcare access, ensuring equality for all citizens, and addressing environmental concerns.
In contrast, the Republican Party, often referred to as the Grand Old Party (GOP), is a conservative force in American politics. Their platform includes reducing taxes, shrinking government size, enforcing stricter immigration laws, and preserving gun rights. The GOP also advocates for more stringent restrictions on abortion, reflecting their conservative base's priorities.
These differing agendas will be at the forefront of the election, with each party's candidate offering a vision for America's future that resonates with their respective bases.
Understanding the electoral process
The US presidential election process is unique and can be complex, particularly for those unfamiliar with the Electoral College system. Unlike many other democratic systems where the candidate with the most votes wins, the US uses an Electoral College to determine its president.
The Electoral College is made up of 538 electors, with each state allocated a certain number of electors based on its population size. For a candidate to win the presidency, they must secure at least 270 electoral votes. This system means that a candidate could potentially win the popular vote—the total number of votes cast across the country—but still lose the election if they do not secure enough electoral votes. This scenario famously occurred in the 2016 election, where Hillary Clinton won the popular vote but lost the Electoral College to Donald Trump.
When Americans go to the polls, they are technically voting for electors who will then cast their votes for president and vice president. These electors are generally pledged to vote for their party's candidate, although there have been instances of "faithless electors" who vote contrary to their pledge.
Voter eligibility and registration
Most US citizens aged 18 or older are eligible to vote in the presidential election. However, voter registration is a prerequisite in all states except North Dakota. Each state has its own voter registration process, with specific deadlines that must be met.
For US citizens living abroad, voting is still possible through the completion of a Federal Postcard Application (FCPA), which allows them to register and request absentee ballots.
Congressional elections: More than just a presidential race
While the presidential race captures most of the headlines, the 2024 election will also decide the makeup of Congress. This is crucial because Congress holds significant power in shaping US laws and policies.
The US Congress is bicameral, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate. In the 2024 election, all 435 seats in the House of Representatives will be contested, along with 34 seats in the Senate. Currently, the House is dominated by Republicans, while the Senate has a Republican majority as well. This dynamic can greatly influence the ability of the president to pass legislation, as a majority opposition in either chamber can block key initiatives.
When will we know the results?
Election results are typically announced on the night of the election. However, this is not always the case, as seen in the 2020 election, where it took several days to count all the votes. If the election results in a change of presidency, the period following the election is known as the "transition" period. This time allows the incoming administration to appoint cabinet members and plan for the new term.
The newly elected president will be formally inaugurated in January 2025, in a ceremony held at Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C.
The 2024 US presidential election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment in American history. With significant issues at stake and a polarized electorate, the outcome will have far-reaching implications, both domestically and globally. As the world watches, American voters will make decisions that will shape the future of the United States for years to come.
