On November 5, 2024, Americans head to the polls to elect the nation’s next president, choosing between Republican nominee Donald Trump and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris. This election follows a highly charged campaign season, with both candidates making final appeals in key battleground states.
Donald Trump presents himself as a candidate who prioritizes America’s interests above all else, encapsulated in his “America First” policy framework. This approach emphasizes self-reliance and the protection of American industries by renegotiating trade deals to favor the U.S., like his renegotiation of NAFTA into the USMCA (United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement). His policies aim to reduce the trade deficit, bring manufacturing jobs back to America, and support domestic industries through tax cuts and deregulation. Trump’s stance on international relations was to leverage America’s economic and military might for better terms in global dealings, which resonated with voters who felt that previous administrations had been too conciliatory, neglecting American interests for globalist agendas.
On the issue of immigration, Trump’s policies were designed to address what he and his supporters see as an uncontrolled flow of illegal immigrants. His campaign promise to build a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border symbolized his commitment to border security. Trump’s administration introduced stringent immigration reforms, including the reduction of legal immigration through changes to visa policies like the H-1B, aiming to prioritize American workers. His approach to immigration was not just about stopping illegal entries but also about reforming the legal immigration system towards a merit-based system, which he argued would better serve the economic and cultural fabric of the United States. These policies appealed to many who felt that immigration, both legal and illegal, needed to be managed more strictly to ensure the welfare of American citizens first.
Early Voting and Turnout
Early voting has seen significant participation, with over 78 million ballots cast prior to Election Day. Notably, Republican voters have shown increased early voting activity compared to previous elections, potentially signaling strong support for Trump. Despite challenges such as natural disasters and isolated incidents of ballot tampering, early voting proceeded without major disruptions.
Campaign Strategies
In the final days leading up to the election, Trump focused on swing states, holding rallies in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Michigan. His campaign emphasized economic growth, national security, and reducing government regulations. High-profile endorsements, including from podcaster Joe Rogan and entrepreneur Elon Musk, bolstered his appeal among certain voter demographics.
Harris concentrated her efforts in Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, highlighting issues such as abortion rights and social justice. Her campaign aimed to mobilize women, moderates, and independents, with support from figures like Lady Gaga at her final rally in Philadelphia.
Polling and Projections
National polls indicate a tight race, with some surveys showing Trump gaining momentum in key states. For instance, an Emerson College survey released on November 4 shows Trump and Harris neck-and-neck in seven battleground states. Additionally, FiveThirtyEight’s election forecast suggests a competitive contest, with both candidates having viable paths to the required 270 electoral votes.
Election Day Developments
As voting commenced, early results from Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, revealed a split decision, with Trump and Harris each receiving three votes. This outcome reflects the anticipated closeness of the race nationwide. Security measures have been heightened in various cities to ensure a smooth voting process and to prepare for potential unrest following the results.
Conclusion
The 2024 presidential election stands as one of the most closely contested in recent history. With both candidates presenting starkly different visions for the country’s future, voter turnout and engagement are expected to reach record levels. As polls close and results begin to emerge, the nation awaits the outcome that will shape the next four years.
