In a historic turn of events, the 2024 US presidential election is shaping up to be a dramatic and unprecedented spectacle. For the first time, both major parties have candidates of South Asian descent. Democratic Presidential Nominee Kamala Harris, of Chennai roots, and Republican Vice Presidential Nominee J.D. Vance, whose wife is of Indian descent, are set to make waves in American politics.
Kamala Harris, born to a Tamil mother from Chennai and a Jamaican father, has risen through the ranks of American politics, starting as the District Attorney of San Francisco, then Attorney General of California, and later serving as a US Senator. Her track record on issues such as the Green New Deal, Affordable College, and Abortion Rights positions her as a progressive force in the Democratic Party. She has quickly garnered significant political donations and support, reflecting a shift in the political landscape.
On the Republican side, J.D. Vance, known for his controversial and polarizing views, has been picked as the vice presidential nominee. Vance has faced criticism for his past statements and policies, including anti-women and anti-LGBTQ remarks. His recent attempts at humor, including a widely ridiculed joke about a sofa, have further marred his public image.
The US presidential election, scheduled for November 5, 2024, is already underway. The campaign has become a focal point of political drama and controversy. President Joe Biden, aged 81, has faced scrutiny over his age and performance. Mistakes such as confusing Ukraine with Iraq and calling the Egyptian president by the wrong name have raised concerns about his ability to effectively lead. The Democratic Party’s internal doubts about Biden’s viability led to his eventual retirement announcement on July 21, 2024.
Kamala Harris’s entry into the presidential race has drastically altered the dynamics. With Biden’s support, she has emerged as a strong candidate, challenging Trump’s campaign. Donald Trump, 78, who has faced multiple impeachments and legal controversies, now finds himself up against a formidable opponent in Harris. The election has become a “laughter challenge,” with Trump’s campaign facing criticism for its focus on personal attacks rather than substantive policy discussions.
The Republican primary has also seen turbulence. Trump, who narrowly escaped an assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania, is facing growing discontent within his party. The shooting, carried out by a registered Republican, has added to the chaotic atmosphere surrounding his campaign. Trump’s response to the attack, including his public displays of defiance, has only intensified the political theater.
The election landscape is further complicated by the role of independent voters and the shifting political sentiments. Recent polls show a tight race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, with Harris gaining traction among centrist voters disillusioned with Trump’s rhetoric and the Republican Party’s direction. The controversy surrounding J.D. Vance and his unpopularity may influence Trump’s chances, with discussions about replacing Vance with a more moderate candidate gaining traction.
Amidst the political turmoil, issues like student loans, healthcare, and housing continue to plague American society. The two-party system, heavily influenced by corporate funding, often overlooks these pressing concerns in favor of partisan conflicts and international policies. The ongoing debate over America’s role in global conflicts and the perceived erosion of democratic values highlights the broader discontent with the current political system.
As the election approaches, American democracy faces a critical test. The 2024 race is not only a battle between candidates but also a reflection of deeper systemic issues within the political system. With no option for “None of the Above” and increasing voter frustration, the legitimacy of the electoral process is under scrutiny. The outcome of this election will not only shape the future of the United States but also impact its global standing as a champion of democracy.
