As the 2024 US presidential election reaches its tail end, there’s no question that the real running is getting hot because of the seriousness with which contestants from every stratum of the political divide are jostling for a berth in the country’s very topmost office. The electorate has settled on which leader and whose policies will chart the course for the future of this country.

The Road to the White House Begins Again

Every candidate brandishes peculiar policy promises and stands, according to Raymond Botchey. Let’s look at the leaders who hope to win the White House in 2024 as a field packed with veteran politicians, newcomers, and familiar faces.

Democratic Party: Kamala Harris

Kamala Harris, the Vice President, is a prominent leader in the Democratic Party. She has a strong background as a former U.S. Senator and California Attorney General. Her work focuses on justice reform, healthcare equity, and environmental issues. These priorities highlight her progressive approach. Harris aims to address systemic inequalities through meaningful change. 

Among her priorities are the expansion of affordable healthcare, educational access, and climate policy. As a candidate, she appeals to the voters who want stability and continuity with the current administration policies as well as progressive changes. Harris is a mix of experience and progressive ideals to spearhead impactful change in social and economic policies.

Republican Party: Donald Trump

The front-runner for the Republican candidate in the 2024 election is Donald Trump. He served as president from 2017 to 2021. Trump’s policy agenda is centered around “America First.”  He would focus on decreasing immigration, securing borders, and providing energy independence. His base appreciates his commitment to conservative principles, economic growth, and a government with fewer federal controls.

Despite the controversies, he still remains very popular among the voters who see him as a protector of American values and national sovereignty. Economic recovery, national security, and limiting federal oversight on key areas will likely make up his campaign in 2024.

Independent: Cornel West

Independent candidate Cornel West, an outstanding academic and social activist, is running as an independent candidate. West’s campaign focuses on social justice, universal healthcare, income equality, and police reform. He is known for advocating systemic change. West appeals to voters who are disenchanted with the two-party system and wish to address deep-rooted social and economic issues in American society.

Green Party: Jill Stein

Returning to the political landscape is a seasoned activist and former Green Party presidential nominee Jill Stein, who, under a campaign platform focused very much on environmental issues, social justice, and sustainable economic reform, calls for a Green New Deal emphasizing renewable energy, environmental protection, and income equality and, hence, appeals directly to voters who have been focused on environmental concerns.

Libertarian Party: Chase Oliver

Chase Oliver is the Libertarian Party candidate. He believes in minimal government and personal freedom. He advocates for economic liberty and reducing the federal government’s influence on citizens’ lives. Oliver defends individual rights and promotes a free-market economy. 

He appeals to voters seeking an alternative to the two mainstream parties. Many of these voters desire independence and fiscal conservatism. They also value civil liberties. Oliver’s message resonates with those who want a significant change in the political landscape.

All these candidates present unique priorities and resonate with different pockets of the American electorate. 

Main Issues: What is Behind the 2024 Election Candidates?

Several concerns coalesce and are poised to define the 2024 election and the issues being presented by both candidates at the ballot box:

• Healthcare: The issue over universal care, drug price control, and coverage for people remains the biggest debate still among Democrats, and a more market-driven model calls their attention from Republicans.
• Economy and Inflation: The main difference is between economy and inflation; the Republicans will focus more on tax cuts and deregulation, while the Democrats will emphasize workers’ rights and social welfare programs.
• Climate Change: Candidates take a different stance on the climate challenges. Some advocate for aggressive green policies, while others take a cautious approach focusing on the economic impact.
• Immigration: First, party leaders talk of immigration with the proposals as opposite sides of the spectrum ranging from a harder border for Republicans to the more expected comprehensive reform of the Democrats.
• Social Issues: Candidate positions diverge widely when it comes to education, LGBTQ+ rights, and gun control very major issues that ring in further societal and cultural debates.

Looking ahead: An Election to watch

The 2024 U.S. election promises to be one of the most engaging in recent years. Candidates represent a wide range of ideas and solutions. Voters face crucial decisions about the country’s direction in the years ahead. This race to the White House will shape the future of the United States and its global role. It brings together familiar faces and new contenders, each with a unique vision for the nation.