The 60th presidential election in the United States is set for November 5, 2024. The importance of this election lies in its occurrence after the redistribution of Electoral College votes that took place during the redistricting cycle of 2020. As at July 2024 Ballotpedia lists five significant presidential candidates 2024 USA, which include Kamala Harris (D), Marianne Williamson (D), Donald Trump (R), Chase Oliver (L), and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (I). This analysis will unpack their backgrounds, platforms and chances.
Democratic Candidates
- Kamala Harris
Background:
Following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race, Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as a leading Democratic contender. Being an ex-California US Senator and California State Attorney General before becoming Vice President are among her accomplishments.
Platform:
Economy: Harris stands for an economy that makes everyone rise by reducing inequality, increasing minimum wage and supporting small-scale merchants.
Healthcare: She supports expansion of access to healthcare as well as building on the Affordable Care Act and lowering prescription drug costs.
Climate Change: Committed to aggressive climate action including investments in renewable energy and striving for net-zero emissions by 2050.
Social Justice: Harris supports criminal justice reform, voting rights expansion, and policies targeted at systemic racism and inequality.
Chances:
As of July 22, 2024, Harris had secured a majority delegate threshold required to become the Democratic presidential nominee. Her chances will depend on her ability to unite the Democratic base and address key voter concerns.
- Marianne Williamson
Background:
Marianne Williamson is an author and activist who write spiritual books as well as self-help books. In 2020, she made a run for the democratic nomination bringing a unique perspective to the campaign.
Platform:
- Healthcare: Advocates for Medicare for all to ensure universal coverage.
- Economy: Supports a universal basic income to address economic disparities and ensure financial security for all Americans.
- Climate Change: Calls for a comprehensive Green New Deal to combat climate change and create green jobs.
- Social Issues: Focuses on policies that promote social justice, racial equality, and the end of mass incarceration.
Chances:
Although Williamson has a passionate base of support and innovative ideas, her unorthodox approach may find it difficult to gain widespread acceptance in the Democratic Party.
Republican Candidate
- Donald Trump
Background:
Former President Donald Trump is the Republican nominee for the 2024 election. He won a majority of delegates at the Republican National Convention on July 15, 2024. Considering his past presidency experience as well as ongoing influence within the Republican Party makes him one of the best presidential candidates 2024 USA.
Platform:
Economy: Designed to reduce taxes, deregulate and encourage US entrepreneurial activities.
Immigration: Strongly championing tougher border controls and policies that aim to curtail illegal migration.
Foreign Policy: Advocates for an “America First” approach which seeks to downsize US involvement in foreign wars and revamp trade agreements.
Social Issues: Takes conservative positions on abortion, gun control rights, and religious liberties.
Chances:
Trump’s strong base of support and ability to mobilize his backers will be crucial for his campaign but he will need more than this as he grapples with lingering legal challenges and fights to broaden his appeal beyond the hardcore faithful.
Third-Party and Independent Candidates
- Chase Oliver (Libertarian)
Background:
Chase Oliver is the Libertarian candidate for the 2024 presidential election. As a member of the Libertarian Party, his political ideology adheres to small government and personal freedom.
Platform:
Economy: Advocates free markets, reduction of government spending, and abolition of income tax.
Civil Liberties: Is a strong supporter of individual rights like free speech, privacy, and the right to bear arms.
Foreign Policy: Advocates for non-interventionism in foreign policy and downsizing military presence worldwide.
Healthcare: Has suggested a market-oriented healthcare system with very little government intervention.
Chances:
Historically, third party presidential candidates 2024 USA have had an uphill task in the presidential elections. Similarly, Oliver’s campaign will rely on pulling discontented voters from the two main parties as well as promoting libertarianism ideals.
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (Independent)
Background:
An independent candidate who has taken up environmental issues as well as being critical about vaccine mandates is Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an activist cum attorney
Platform:
Environment: Advocates for strong environmental protections and addressing climate change through sustainable practices.
Public Health: Calls for greater scrutiny of pharmaceutical companies and ensuring vaccine safety.
Economic Justice: Supports policies aimed at reducing economic inequality and enhancing social safety nets.
Government Transparency: Promotes measures to reduce corruption and increase government accountability.
Chances:
Kennedy’s candidacy as an independent presents both opportunities and challenges. It will be important for him that he is able to draw support from various poles so long as his ambition to win the election is accomplished.
The 2024 presidential election features a diverse array of candidates, each bringing unique perspectives and platforms to the race. Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are the leading candidates from the major parties, with significant support and well-defined platforms. Marianne Williamson offers a more progressive vision within the Democratic Party, while Chase Oliver and Robert F. Kennedy Jr. present alternative choices outside the traditional two-party system.
As the election approaches, the candidates’ ability to address voter concerns, mobilize support, and navigate the complex political landscape will determine their success. Voters will need to stay informed about each candidate’s policies and records of accomplishment to make an informed decision on November 5, 2024.
