As the United States prepares for the 60th quadrennial presidential election on November 5, 2024, citizens eagerly anticipate the opportunity to select their next president and vice president. Incumbent President Joe Biden, representing the Democratic Party, seeks re-election, while former President Donald Trump, a Republican, aims for a nonconsecutive second term. With key issues like firearms regulation, LGBTQ rights, and the economy taking center stage, this election promises to be a momentous event in shaping the nation’s future.
The Path to Nomination Of the 2024 United States Presidential Election:
Both major parties will hold nominating conventions, showcasing a lineup of candidates before the general election. Primary elections and caucuses at the state level will determine the delegates responsible for selecting the party’s nominee. It is during these spirited primaries that the 2024 candidates will engage in vigorous debates, rallies, and public appearances, seeking to secure their party’s nomination and rally support.
Procedure for Presidency
According to Article Two of the United States Constitution, the requirements for someone to serve as president include being a natural-born citizen, at least 35 years old, and a resident of the United States for at least 14 years. The Twenty-second Amendment limits presidents to being elected for a maximum of two terms. Both the current president, Biden, and former president, Trump, meet these eligibility criteria. The nomination process for major party candidates involves a series of primary elections where delegates are selected to choose the candidate at the national convention. The party’s presidential nominee usually selects a running mate who is then approved by the delegates at the convention.
The general election in November is an indirect election where voters cast their ballots for members of the Electoral College, who then directly elect the president and vice president.
Both Biden and Trump have announced their intentions to run for president in 2024, potentially setting the stage for a rematch of the 2020 election. If Trump were to be elected, he would become the second president to serve non-consecutive terms, following Grover Cleveland in 1892.
The Battle for Swing States:
Swing states, such as Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania, Nevada, Arizona, and Georgia, will play a crucial role in deciding the election outcome. These highly contested states hold the power to shift between the Democratic and Republican parties, making them the epicenter of campaign strategies. As the 2024 primary schedule unfolds, candidates will embark on a journey to win the hearts and minds of voters in these pivotal states through impactful rallies, engaging debates, and targeted campaign events.
Pressing Issues and Vibrant Debates:
The 2024 election is expected to be dominated by key issues that resonate with the American public. Crime, immigration, gun control, healthcare, abortion access, LGBTQ rights (with a particular focus on transgender rights), the economy, and election integrity are all poised to shape the discourse among the candidates. Through passionate debates, candidates will present their visions for a stronger, more inclusive America, each striving to capture the attention and support of the electorate.
Abortion Issue:
Abortion access is poised to be a prominent issue in the upcoming presidential campaign. Recent court rulings, such as the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision overturning Roe v. Wade, have given states the ability to enact full abortion bans, leading to a surge in near-total abortion bans in Republican-controlled states. Democrats generally advocate for abortion access as a right, while Republican candidates in the primary have varying views on federal restrictions. In 2022, despite strong support for former President Trump, pro-abortion ballot measures prevailed in states. As of April 2023, a significant number of Republican-controlled states have implemented near-total abortion bans, making it largely illegal across much of the country. Some states have even enacted early-stage abortion bans without exceptions for rape or incest. The Republican primary is expected to feature discussions and debates around the topic of abortion, with candidates taking differing positions on federal restrictions. Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida, considered a prominent challenger to Trump, signed a six-week abortion restriction into law in the state, attracting attention to his stance on the issue.
Firearms Regulation:
Firearms regulation continues to be a significant topic in the lead-up to the 2024 election. At the National Rifle Association (NRA) conference in Indianapolis, Donald Trump and other Republican presidential candidates expressed their support for gun owners’ rights, amid concerns raised by recent mass shootings. Democrats criticized the GOP’s alignment with the NRA and emphasized that firearms will be a major issue throughout the campaign. President Joe Biden has called on Congress to pass an assault weapons ban following a shooting incident in Nashville.
LGBTQ right:
LGBT rights are another prominent issue in the upcoming election. Conservative politicians in state legislatures have introduced numerous bills targeting the rights of LGBT individuals, particularly transgender people. Donald Trump, in a campaign message, pledged to enact federal laws recognizing only two genders and introduced policies targeting transgender Americans. Florida Governor Ron DeSantis signed several anti-LGBT laws, including the controversial “Don’t Say Gay” law, which prohibits discussing sexual orientation and gender identity in public schools. DeSantis also enacted bills banning gender-affirming healthcare for minors and restricting the use of preferred pronouns in schools. These actions highlight the ongoing debate over LGBT rights leading up to the 2024 election.
The Trump Factor:
Former President Donald Trump’s re-entry into the political arena adds an intriguing element to the 2024 election. Having announced his intention to run once again, Trump brings his unique style and influence to the race, potentially setting the stage for a highly anticipated rematch of the 2020 election. His campaign rallies, known for their energy and enthusiasm, are anticipated to draw fervent crowds and generate significant media attention.
Polls and Public Opinion:
Public opinion polls will provide valuable insights into the preferences and sentiments of voters throughout the campaign. As the election season progresses, these polls will gauge the shifting dynamics and changing perceptions of the electorate, influencing campaign strategies and messaging. Candidates will closely monitor the polls to refine their platforms and appeal to the desires and concerns of the American people.
As the 2024 United States presidential election approaches, anticipation fills the air. The journey to determine the country’s next president and vice president begins with the primary season, where candidates will crisscross the nation, igniting passions and inspiring hope. From lively rallies to spirited debates, the election will captivate the nation, addressing pressing issues and shaping the course of American democracy. The outcome of this historic event will set the stage for the nation’s future, paving the way for a new chapter in the United States political landscape.