In the 2024 US election, an unprecedented campaign season unfolded as President Joe Biden stepped down mid-campaign, paving the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to secure the Democratic nomination and make history as the first Black woman to lead a major party’s ticket. Donald Trump emerged as the Republican nominee, surviving multiple legal battles and two assassination attempts, both of which heightened his rallying cry among supporters. His main challengers, Ron DeSantis and Nikki Haley, eventually withdrew, leaving him unopposed within the party.
Other notable events included Trump’s conviction on 34 counts related to hush money payments, a controversial Supreme Court ruling granting partial immunity to Trump for actions taken in his presidential capacity, and a chaotic first presidential debate where Biden’s performance fueled calls for a younger Democratic contender.
Harris chose Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her running mate, while Trump selected Ohio Senator JD Vance. Celebrities like Taylor Swift and Robert De Niro rallied behind Harris, while Elon Musk backed Trump, joining his campaign efforts.
Throughout the season, fierce debates, provocative statements, and incidents of racialized rhetoric at Trump rallies drew international attention, with polls showing an extremely tight race. Both candidates made powerful final appeals to voters, underscoring what each described as a critical moment for the future of American democracy. As the world watches, both campaigns prepare for possible disruptions, reflecting the intense political climate leading up to Election Day.
