Trump vs Harris: Key Details for the 2024 US Presidential Election
The 2024 US presidential election, set for November 5, will see Donald Trump face Kamala Harris after Joe Biden's withdrawal. Early voting begins in September, with results expected days after Election Day.
The upcoming 2024 United States presidential election is poised to be a significant political event, with Donald Trump and Kamala Harris emerging as the main contenders for the White House. This development follows Joe Biden's unexpected withdrawal from the race after a challenging first debate performance against Trump.
Set for November 5, 2024, the election will determine who will lead the nation for the next four years, beginning with the inauguration on January 20, 2025. This quadrennial event, established by the US Constitution, not only decides the presidency but also shapes the composition of Congress.
The Electoral College system, a unique feature of US presidential elections, places heightened importance on certain battleground states. Pennsylvania, with its 19 electoral votes, remains a critical focus for both campaigns. Other key states include Arizona, Georgia, Wisconsin, and Nevada, which Biden narrowly secured in 2020. While Florida and Ohio have leaned Republican in recent elections, the political landscape remains fluid.
Early voting, a practice introduced in the 1980s, begins well before Election Day in many states. Alabama leads the charge, commencing on September 11, 2024, followed by Wisconsin on September 19. The timeline extends through October, with Texas starting on October 21 and Michigan on October 26.
"Early voting has become increasingly popular, allowing greater flexibility for voters and potentially increasing turnout."
On Election Day, most voters will cast their ballots at polling stations across the country. However, a significant number will have already voted through early voting or mail-in ballots, a practice dating back to the Civil War. Polls typically close around 7 PM local time, but due to the six time zones across the US, vote counting will be staggered.
The complex nature of the US electoral system means that projecting a winner may take days. It's important to note that the popular vote does not necessarily determine the outcome, as demonstrated in previous elections. The Electoral College system, established by the Founding Fathers, ultimately decides the victor.
This election will also determine the makeup of Congress. All 435 voting members of the House of Representatives and one-third of the 100 Senate seats will be contested. These Congressional elections, held every two years, play a crucial role in shaping the legislative landscape.
As the campaign unfolds, voters should be aware of key electoral protections. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 prohibits racial discrimination in voting, while the Federal Election Commission oversees campaign finance laws. These measures aim to ensure a fair and transparent electoral process.
The 2024 election marks another chapter in the evolving story of American democracy. From the first televised debate in 1960 to the introduction of early voting and the impact of social media, the way Americans choose their leaders continues to adapt to changing times.
