US Election 2024: Kamala Harris and Donald Trump Conclude Intense Campaigns Ahead of Election Day
As the 2024 U.S. presidential election unfolds, America finds itself at a significant political crossroads. On November 5, current Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee, competes against former President Donald Trump, the Republican contender, as both make their final campaign pushes in key battleground states. With voter turnout expected to play a crucial role, Harris and Trump are campaigning vigorously, drawing sharp contrasts on their visions for the country’s future.
In a notable show of commitment to Pennsylvania’s 19 electoral votes, Kamala Harris spent her final campaign hours focused entirely on the state, visiting multiple communities in an effort to rally working-class support. She ended her day in a high-energy rally alongside prominent supporters, including celebrities like Lady Gaga and Oprah Winfrey, aiming to drive enthusiasm among voters in a state critical for electoral victory.
Meanwhile, Donald Trump launched a four-rally marathon spanning North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. During a rally in Pittsburgh, Trump addressed his supporters directly, asking them to reflect on whether they feel better off than they were four years ago. He characterized the recent years as a period of setbacks and betrayals for many Americans, a message aimed at galvanizing his base to vote for change. Trump also suggested that the Democrats are facing turnout issues, referencing a “massive turnout deficit” and lower participation rates in urban areas traditionally favoring Democrats. A memo from Trump’s campaign asserted that early voting numbers reflect this trend, which could play a role in swing states.
Kamala Harris’ campaign has placed a significant emphasis on her heritage and family history. In a campaign video narrated by Viola Davis, Harris spoke about her mother’s immigrant journey and how it shaped her life and leadership approach. Her reflections resonate in her ancestral village of Thulasendrapuram in Tamil Nadu, India, where villagers gathered to offer prayers for her success. Harris’ ties to the village underscore her unique cultural connection to South Asian Americans and have sparked global interest in her candidacy.
As voting day nears, the election has seen a mix of hope and tension among voters. Enthusiasm for Harris’ campaign has been palpable, with organized labor unions backing her efforts, pointing to her commitment to social security as a major issue. Unions have actively engaged in canvassing for Harris, arguing that Trump’s plan to make Social Security income tax-free would threaten the program’s funding and stability in the years ahead.
Security has also been a significant concern as both campaigns ramped up efforts in the final days. In Philadelphia, where Harris concluded her last major rally, authorities increased security measures to ensure a safe environment for both the candidate and the thousands of attendees. As political tensions simmer, safety has become a priority for local officials.
The election has also triggered economic ripple effects. Over the weekend, polls showed Harris with a narrow lead, which led to a decrease in the dollar’s value and a rally in U.S. Treasury yields. Financial markets have been particularly sensitive to election developments, with fluctuations reflecting the possible economic policy shifts that could arise under different administrations.
On the international front, Trump’s strong stance on issues concerning India has drawn attention from Republican Hindu leaders in the U.S., who support his position on reducing Khalistani separatist influence. They argue that Trump’s re-election would signal a tougher approach on issues affecting Indo-U.S. relations. This stance is anticipated to influence Canada’s policies, potentially easing tensions with India and creating a diplomatic opening.
In the final days, both candidates worked tirelessly to sway undecided voters, especially in states like North Carolina, Michigan, and Pennsylvania, where outcomes could define the election. Amid this heightened activity, misinformation has also surfaced, with claims of voter fraud circulating online. Jen Easterly, a top U.S. election security official, addressed these rumors, cautioning that such misinformation undermines democratic principles and can incite threats against election officials.
Legal challenges have also added to the intensity of this election. States like Texas and Florida recently announced they would block federal election monitors from entering polling places. This move is a break from longstanding norms aimed at ensuring fair elections, with Missouri filing a federal lawsuit to stop election monitors.
As Americans cast their votes, the outcome of this election is uncertain, with a mix of polls suggesting a close race. Harris has a slight edge in some surveys, but Trump’s base remains resilient, pushing for strong voter turnout. The results are expected on November 6, though tight margins in key states could delay a conclusive outcome.
The 2024 U.S. presidential election has seen intense campaigning, historical tensions, and unprecedented voter mobilization efforts, as Kamala Harris and Donald Trump vie for the presidency. As voters make their choices, the world watches, awaiting a decision that could shape the nation’s future for years to come.