2024 Presidential Race:
As the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election
draws near, several prominent figures are positioning themselves to take a shot at the White House. Here’s a look at
the top contenders
and their
campaign promises:
Joe Biden
The current U.S. President, Joe Biden
, is expected to run for re-election. His campaign promises include:
Continued focus on COVID-19 response and recovery
Climate change action: Net-zero emissions by 2050
Expansion of social programs (e.g., affordable healthcare, education)
Donald Trump
The former President, Donald J. Trump
, has already announced his intent to run for office again in 202Some of his campaign promises include:
Border security: Wall construction, immigration reform
Economic growth and jobs creation
Maintaining law and order: Criminal justice reform, Second Amendment protection
Elon Musk
The entrepreneur and CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, Elon Musk
, has expressed interest in a presidential run. If he decides to enter the race, his campaign promises might include:
Space exploration and colonization
Renewable energy transition and sustainability
Infrastructure investments in transportation, broadband, and energy
I. Introduction
As the 2024 presidential race approaches, it’s essential to understand the contenders and their promises in order to make informed decisions. The next election cycle holds significant implications for the future of our nation, and being well-informed is crucial for every voter.
Brief overview of the 2024 presidential race
The 2024 presidential race promises to be an intriguing contest, with several high-profile contenders already announcing their intentions to run. The field is expected to be diverse and inclusive, reflecting the changing demographics of our society. Some frontrunners include incumbent President Joe Biden, former President Donald Trump, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, and California Governor Gavin Newsom.
Biden’s promises:
President Biden has focused on issues such as climate change, social justice, and economic recovery. He aims to pass a comprehensive infrastructure bill, invest in renewable energy sources, and expand access to affordable healthcare for all Americans.
Trump’s promises:
Former President Trump’s campaign platform revolves around issues such as border security, tax cuts, and deregulation. He plans to build the wall, repeal Obamacare, and restore a “law-and-order” approach to policing.
DeSantis’s promises:
Governor DeSantis has focused on education, job creation, and individual freedoms. He plans to increase funding for public schools, attract new businesses to Florida, and protect the rights of gun owners.
Newsom’s promises:
Governor Newsom’s campaign platform includes issues such as affordable housing, universal healthcare, and climate change. He plans to expand Medicaid coverage, invest in renewable energy sources, and create more affordable housing units for low-income families.
Why understanding contenders’ promises matters
Understanding the promises of each candidate is crucial for voters to make informed decisions. By being well-informed, we can hold our elected officials accountable and ensure that they are working in the best interests of their constituents. Additionally, understanding the key issues and positions of each candidate can help us engage in meaningful conversations with friends, family members, and fellow community members.
Contender 1: Joe Biden (Democratic Incumbent)
Personal background and political career:
Joe Biden, the current Democratic Incumbent, was born on November 20, 1942, in Scranton, Pennsylvania. He served as the 47th Vice President of the United States from 2009 to 2017, and was a senator representing Delaware from 1973 until his resignation in 2009. Biden began his political career in 1972, when he was elected to the United States Senate from Delaware at age 29, making him one of the youngest senators in U.S. history. He served seven terms and chaired several key Senate committees during his tenure.
Campaign promises if seeking re-election:
Climate change and green energy:
Biden has pledged to take immediate action on climate change if re-elected. He plans to invest $1.7 trillion over a decade in initiatives such as building a national network of 500,000 electric vehicle charging stations, investing in wind, solar and other renewable energy projects, and creating millions of new jobs in the green energy sector.
Economy and jobs:
Biden‘s economic plan includes initiatives to create millions of new jobs, invest in infrastructure projects, and provide tax relief for middle-class families. He has also proposed increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour, expanding access to affordable housing, and providing free community college education.
Healthcare and social programs:
Biden‘s healthcare plan includes expanding the Affordable Care Act (ACA) and creating a public option for health insurance. He has also proposed increasing funding for social programs such as affordable housing, education, and job training.
Foreign policy and national security:
Biden‘s foreign policy focuses on rebuilding alliances with traditional U.S. allies, strengthening the NATO alliance, and addressing challenges such as China’s rising power and Iran’s nuclear program. He has also proposed increasing funding for cybersecurity and other national security initiatives.
Challenges and potential weaknesses:
Age factor:
Biden, who is currently 78 years old, has faced criticism over his age and fitness for the presidency. Some opponents have questioned whether he has the energy and stamina to run a successful campaign and govern effectively if re-elected.
Approval ratings:
Biden‘s approval ratings have been relatively low throughout his presidency, with many Americans expressing dissatisfaction with his handling of various issues such as the economy and immigration. Some polls have shown that a significant number of voters are undecided about whether to support him for re-election.
Divisive political climate:
The current political climate in the United States is highly divisive, with deep partisan divisions and intense political polarization. This could make it difficult for Biden to win over voters in key swing states or to pass significant legislation if re-elected. Some analysts have suggested that he may need to adopt a more centrist stance or find ways to reach out to voters from the opposing party in order to be successful.
I Contender 2: Donald Trump (Republican)
Personal background and political career
Donald J. Trump is a
reality TV show
“The Apprentice” and built an
international business empire
that included casinos, hotels, golf courses, and residential and commercial properties. Trump entered the political scene as a
Republican
in 2015 when he announced his candidacy for the presidency, making waves with his bold rhetoric and controversial policies.
Campaign promises if running again
Economy and jobs:
If he runs for office again, Trump is expected to focus heavily on his achievements during his first term, such as record-low unemployment rates and a booming stock market. He may promise further tax cuts for businesses and individuals, as well as infrastructure spending.
Immigration policy:
Trump’s immigration policies have been a cornerstone of his political identity. He may promise to build the wall along the U.S.-Mexico border, increase ICE deportations, and restrict immigration from certain countries.
Foreign policy and national security:
Trump’s foreign policy was marked by a “America First” approach, which may include reevaluating alliances, negotiating trade deals, and taking a tough stance on countries like China and Iran. He may also promise to maintain a strong military and continue efforts to combat terrorism.
Social issues (abortion, LGBTQ+ rights):
Trump has been criticized for his stance on social issues, particularly regarding abortion and LGBTQ+ rights. He may promise to appoint conservative justices to the Supreme Court to overturn Roe v. Wade, and roll back protections for LGBTQ+ individuals in areas like employment and education.
Challenges and potential weaknesses
Legal issues:
Trump faces numerous legal challenges, including investigations into his business dealings and potential obstruction of justice. These issues could distract him from campaigning and damage his public image.
Divisive rhetoric:
Trump’s divisive language and polarizing policies have alienated many voters, particularly women, people of color, and young people. He will need to find a way to appeal to these groups if he hopes to win in 2024.
Approval ratings among key demographics:
Trump’s approval ratings are low among key voter demographics, including women, young people, and people of color. He will need to reach out to these groups and earn their trust if he wants to win the presidency again.
Contender 3: Kamala Harris
Personal background and political career
Kamala Harris,
Campaign promises if running for president
Criminal justice reform
Harris has been a longtime advocate for criminal justice reform and has called for an end to mass incarceration, sentencing reform, and abolishing the death penalty.
Healthcare
Harris supports a single-payer healthcare system, like “Medicare for All,” which would provide comprehensive health coverage to all Americans. She also supports increasing funding for community health centers and expanding access to mental health services.
Climate change and energy policy
Harris has made climate change a top priority and supports the Green New Deal, which aims to transition the U.S. economy away from fossil fuels and toward 100% renewable energy sources while creating millions of jobs.
Education and student debt
Harris supports increasing funding for public schools, expanding access to higher education, and forgiving some student debt through her “Lunar Act,” which would forgive up to $50,000 in student loan debt for borrowers earning less than $100,000 per year.
Challenges and potential weaknesses
Lack of executive experience
Harris’ lack of executive experience may be a challenge for some voters, as she has never held an executive office or run a large organization.
Perception as too liberal for some voters
Harris’ progressive policy positions on issues like healthcare, criminal justice reform, and climate change may make her appear too liberal for some voters in the moderate or conservative political spectrum.
Handling of high-profile issues (border crisis, Afghanistan withdrawal)
Some critics have raised concerns about Harris’ handling of high-profile issues, such as her response to the border crisis and her stance on the Afghanistan withdrawal. These criticisms could potentially impact her electability in a presidential campaign.
Contender 4: Mike Pence
Mike Pence, the current Republican Vice President, has a rich personal background and an extensive political career. Born in Columbus, Indiana, in 1959, Pence attended Hanover College before earning a law degree from Indiana University. He began his political career as a radio talk show host in the 1990s, using the platform to promote conservative values. Pence served six terms in Congress from 2001 to 2013, representing Indiana’s 6th district. In 2013, he was sworn in as Governor of Indiana, serving until his election as Vice President in 2016.
Campaign Promises if Running for President:
If Mike Pence were to run for president, his campaign promises would likely focus on the following areas:
- Pro-life stance on abortion: Pence is a known advocate for the pro-life movement and has signed several anti-abortion laws during his tenure as governor. He would likely seek to overturn Roe v. Wade and restrict access to abortion at the federal level.
- Strong border security: Pence has been a vocal supporter of securing the U.S.-Mexico border, advocating for building a wall and increasing resources for border patrol.
- Free market economics: Pence is a proponent of free market principles, having supported tax cuts and deregulation during his time as governor. He would likely continue to push for policies that support business growth and minimize government intervention in the economy.
- Traditional values (religion, family): Pence is a devout Christian and has frequently spoken about the importance of traditional values in American society. He would likely prioritize issues related to religion, family, and morality during his campaign.
Challenges and Potential Weaknesses:
Despite his strong political record, Mike Pence faces several challenges and potential weaknesses that could impact his presidential campaign:
- Perception as too conservative for some voters: Pence’s unwavering conservative stance on issues such as abortion and social issues could turn off moderate and independent voters. He would need to find a way to appeal to a broader audience while maintaining his base support.
- Handling of COVID-19 response: Pence’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic as Vice President has been criticized by some. He was in charge of leading the administration’s response efforts, but the U.S. suffered one of the highest death tolls and infection rates in the world. This could make it difficult for him to reassure voters that he can effectively manage a crisis.
- Lack of charisma compared to Trump: Pence lacks the charisma and bombastic personality that made Donald Trump a formidable campaigner. He would need to find ways to energize voters and distinguish himself from other candidates in a crowded field.
VI. Contender 5: Pete Buttigieg (Democrat)
Personal background and political career:
Pete Buttigieg, a 38-year-old former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, is a veteran, having served in the U.S. Navy Reserve from 2006 to 2017. He first ran for mayor in 2011, winning the election with only 32% of the votes. In his eight years as mayor, he focused on revitalizing South Bend’s economy and infrastructure. He gained national attention with his unsuccessful bid for the Democratic nomination in 2020.
Campaign promises if running for president:
Climate change and green energy:
Buttigieg pledged to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, focusing on transitioning the economy towards renewable energy sources. He also supports rejoining the Paris Agreement.
Healthcare and social programs:
He advocates for a Medicare-for-All system, expanding Social Security and Medicare, as well as providing universal pre-K education.
Foreign policy experience:
As a Rhodes Scholar, Buttigieg spent six years studying in Oxford and Paris. He also served as an advisor to the U.S. Trade Representative under President Obama. In foreign policy, he favors diplomacy and multilateralism.
LGBTQ+ rights and equality:
Buttigieg is openly gay, making him the first openly gay candidate for a major party’s nomination. He has advocated for equal rights and marriage equality throughout his political career.
Challenges and potential weaknesses:
Lack of executive experience:
Being a small-town mayor doesn’t compare to the responsibilities of being the President, which could be a concern for some voters.
Perception as too liberal for some voters:
Despite being a moderate Democrat, his support for progressive policies like Medicare-for-All might scare away more conservative voters.
Handling of high-profile issues:
Buttigieg faced criticism for his handling of the border crisis and the Afghanistan withdrawal. His responses to these issues could sway undecided voters.
V Conclusion
In the highly competitive and complex 2024 presidential race, several top contenders have emerged with distinct campaign promises that could significantly shape the outcome of the election.
Summary of Top Contenders and Their Campaign Promises
First, we have Incumbent President Joe Biden, who is running on a platform of building upon his administration’s achievements in areas such as economic recovery, climate change, and healthcare. He has promised to continue investing in infrastructure projects, expand access to affordable healthcare, and prioritize climate action through executive orders and international cooperation.
Next is Former President Donald Trump, who has made a dramatic return to the political scene with his “Make America Great Again 2.0” campaign. He has promised to restore law and order, build the wall, repeal Biden’s policies, and focus on energy independence. Trump’s base remains firmly behind him, but he faces criticism over his handling of the January 6th Capitol riots and ongoing investigations.
Another notable contender is Senator Bernie Sanders, who has gained a significant following with his progressive policies such as Medicare-for-All, free college education, and the Green New Deal. Sanders has also promised to address income inequality and campaign finance reform.
Lastly, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has emerged as a strong challenger to Trump. He has distinguished himself with his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, education reforms, and conservative policies. DeSantis has promised to prioritize individual freedoms, limited government, and a strong economy.
Importance of Understanding These Promises for Voters
Understanding the campaign promises of these top contenders is essential for voters as they make informed decisions in the upcoming election. Each candidate’s stance on key issues can significantly impact their lives and the future of the nation. By evaluating each candidate’s promises, voters can assess which one aligns best with their values, priorities, and vision for America.
Potential Implications for the Election Outcome
The election outcome could hinge on which candidate’s campaign promises resonate most with the electorate. Factors such as the economy, healthcare, climate change, and national security will play a significant role in shaping voters’ decisions. Additionally, unexpected events or issues could emerge during the campaign season that could significantly impact the election outcome.
