The 2024 Presidential Election is a significant event that many Americans—as well as observers all around the world—are eagerly anticipating. With incumbent President Joe Biden, the Democratic nominee, and his predecessor Donald Trump, the Republican nominee, both running for their second term, the election is shaping up to be the most closely watched political event of 2024.
When is the 2024 Presidential Election?
The 2024 Presidential Election will take place on November 5, 2024. This date falls on a Tuesday, which continues the tradition of holding elections on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. This tradition dates back to 1845, when it was established to accommodate agricultural societies.
Now, if the powers that be declare Election Day a federal holiday—especially since it’s held on the same date each year—everyone would really have a chance to vote. (Lines can be long, some states have banned bottled water, and some people work multiple jobs with inflexible hours.)
Key Dates Leading Up to the Election
Several key dates and events lead up to the November 5 election, including state presidential primary and caucus events, party conventions, and presidential debates.
The American Samoa Republican Presidential Caucuses, scheduled for March 12, is one of the earliest events in the 2024 election cycle. States and territories hold primaries and caucuses to select delegates who will vote for their party’s candidate at the national convention.
The Secretary of State must certify recognized political party candidates by August 20, 2024.
Presidential Debates and Conventions
Details of the presidential debates and party conventions, both crucial parts of the election process, will likely be announced closer to the events. The debates allow voters to hear directly from the candidates on various issues like immigration and equal rights, while the conventions are where each party officially nominates its presidential candidate.
Who’s Running for President in 2024?
The incumbent President, Joe Biden, is the Democratic candidate seeking re-election. On the other side of the aisle, former President Donald Trump has emerged as the single major candidate for the Republicans after the last of his challengers (Nikki Haley and Ron Desantis) dropped out.
This lineup suggests a rematch of the 2020 election, which brings the two oldest presidential candidates in American history back into the spotlight. However, a handful of independent candidates in key states could still influence the race. Then there’s also Trump’s 91 indictments to consider…
What’s at Stake in the 2024 Election?
As always, the Presidential Election will have far-reaching implications for both domestic and foreign policy. The outcome will determine the country’s direction for the next four years (if not longer, with Trump promising to be a “dictator” on “day one”), with potential impacts on areas such as healthcare, climate change, economic policy, and international relations, and our overall democracy.
As voters approach November 5, 2024, we must educate ourselves about the candidates, the issues, and the election process itself. By doing so, we can make informed decisions that will shape the future of the United States.
