The upcoming November election is expected to be highly competitive, as indicated by the latest Reuters/Ipsos poll showing President Joe Biden slightly leading with 40% support among registered voters. Both Biden and former President Donald Trump will compete in what is shaping up to be a closely contested and divisive U.S. presidential election 2024 on November 5th. Additionally, there are several third-party candidates in the running.
Former President Donald Trump, who served from 2017 to 2021, has secured enough delegates to clinch the Republican nomination, setting up the first presidential rematch in nearly 70 years. He has emphasized legal challenges to bolster his base and framed his campaign as a response to perceived political foes. Trump has labeled supporters involved in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol attack as “hostages” and has employed increasingly dire rhetoric in his campaigning, hinting at potential unrest around the November 5 election.
Facing 88 charges across four criminal cases related to the 2020 election, classified document retention post-office, and a hush money payment to a porn star, Trump denies any wrongdoing. He views these charges as a Democratic ploy to hinder his chances of winning, with some cases potentially going to trial before the election. Trump has shown a willingness to challenge legal decisions, including those involving the U.S. Supreme Court.
Trump’s campaign promises include seeking retribution against opponents if re-elected, though he has tempered such statements with claims of jest. He also aims to reshape the federal workforce and has expressed doubts about accepting election results if unfavorable. Trump’s policies on immigration, abortion, healthcare, and climate change are focal points of his campaign, alongside his foreign policy stance regarding NATO, Russia, Ukraine, and Israel.
President Joe Biden, seeking re-election, has framed his candidacy as a defense of American values and democracy against perceived threats posed by Trump. With a slight lead in voter support according to recent polls, Biden, at 81, must convince voters of his fitness for office compared to his 77-year-old opponent, Trump.
Biden’s campaign focuses on economic recovery, immigration reform, and international relations, especially in response to conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. While criticized by some for his handling of these issues, Biden aims to garner support through his policies and diplomatic efforts.
Marianne Williamson, a best-selling author and self-help guru, reentered the 2024 presidential race with a focus on “justice and love” after initially suspending her campaign. Williamson, aged 71, positions herself against what she perceives as Donald Trump’s “dark and authoritarian vision.” She previously ran as a Democrat in the 2020 primary but withdrew before any votes were cast.
Williamson’s campaign emphasizes progressive values, social justice, and holistic approaches to governance. Her platform includes policies related to healthcare, education, environmental sustainability, and income inequality. While her chances of winning the presidency may be slim, her presence in the race adds diversity to the political discourse and gives voice to certain segments of the electorate seeking alternative perspectives.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., aged 70, is running as an independent after initially challenging Joe Biden for the Democratic nomination. He is known for his activism against vaccines and his environmental advocacy. Kennedy, the son of the late U.S. Senator Robert F. Kennedy, has faced criticism from his own family, who have publicly supported Biden.
Kennedy’s platform includes positions on various issues, such as supporting Israel while questioning certain ceasefire agreements, opposing Trump’s border wall, and advocating for changes in climate policy. He has fluctuated in polls, garnering 8% support among registered voters in a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll. While not considered a front-runner, Kennedy’s candidacy adds complexity to the political landscape, especially concerning issues like healthcare, national security, and environmental protection.
Cornel West, a political activist, philosopher, and academic, is running a third-party bid for president, likely to appeal to progressive, Democratic-leaning voters. West, aged 70, initially ran as a Green Party candidate but transitioned to an independent candidacy, prioritizing policy outcomes over partisan politics.
West’s platform centers on ending poverty, ensuring housing for all, and addressing systemic injustices. He advocates for bold social and economic reforms, emphasizing grassroots movements and community empowerment. While West’s chances of winning the presidency may be remote, his candidacy reflects a desire for substantive change and challenges mainstream political narratives.
Jill Stein, a physician who previously ran under the Green Party in 2016, is making another independent bid in 2024. Stein, aged 73, criticizes both Democrats and Republicans for failing to address key issues such as climate change, economic inequality, and healthcare access.
Stein’s campaign focuses on progressive policies, including environmental protection, healthcare reform, and economic justice. She brings attention to issues often overlooked by major parties, advocating for systemic changes and challenging the status quo. While her candidacy may not have significant electoral impact, Stein’s presence highlights alternative viewpoints and encourages discussions on critical policy areas.
The 2024 U.S. presidential election presents a critical juncture for American politics, with candidates from major parties and independents offering contrasting visions for the nation’s future. The electorate faces a choice between continuity or change in domestic and foreign policies, making this election one of the most anticipated and consequential in recent history.
