With just nine days remaining until the pivotal US presidential election on November 5, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Vice President and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris is set to challenge former President and Republican candidate Donald Trump in what promises to be one of the most consequential elections in American history.
Candidates and Running Mates
Harris has selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, while Trump has chosen JD Vance, the United States senator from Ohio since 2023. As the election approaches, early voting is already in full swing, with over 41 million votes cast across the country, according to data from the University of Florida’s Election Lab. In the key state of Georgia alone, more than 2.7 million voters have already participated.
Significant Numbers to Watch
– Two: The presidential race features two main candidates from the major parties: Kamala Harris for the Democrats and Donald Trump for the Republicans. However, several independent candidates are also competing and have garnered significant votes.
– Five: Election Day in the United States is traditionally held on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November, which falls on November 5 this year.
– Seven: There are seven swing states that are crucial for both candidates, including Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. These states are essential for securing victory, as even a small number of votes can decide the election.
– 34 and 435: Voters will also be determining the composition of Congress, with 34 Senate seats and all 435 House of Representatives seats up for grabs. The Republicans currently hold a majority in the House, while Democrats hope to shift the balance in their favor.
– 538: The US Electoral College, which consists of 538 electors, plays a significant role in the presidential election. A candidate needs to secure 270 electoral votes to win the presidency.
– 774,000: In the 2020 election, approximately 774,000 poll workers volunteered to ensure the election ran smoothly. This year, election officials are facing increased scrutiny and pressure, particularly due to Trump’s previous refusal to accept election outcomes.
– 270 million and 78 million: Harris’s campaign spent $270 million in September, while Trump’s spending totaled $78 million. Harris has raised over $1 billion since entering the race, setting a record for campaign fundraising.
– 244 million: According to the Bipartisan Policy Center, 244 million Americans are eligible to vote in the upcoming election. High turnout is anticipated, similar to the 66% participation rate seen in the 2020 presidential election.
– 41 million: As of October 27, more than 41 million Americans had voted early, with many states allowing in-person and mail-in voting to accommodate voters’ schedules.
With these significant figures in mind, both campaigns ramp up their efforts as Election Day approaches, highlighting the crucial role each vote will play in shaping the nation’s future.
