The 2024 Presidential Election comes at a time of deep-seated political division, with economic uncertainty, healthcare, and climate change standing firm as voters’ top concerns.

The campaign is shaped by the lasting effects of past administrations, shifting party dynamics, and major societal issues. One of the most critical topics on voters’ minds is the economy. Inflation and economic instability remain points of contention, with both major parties presenting differing strategies to boost growth and reduce financial hardship. Conversations around economic recovery have been accompanied by ongoing debates about taxes, job creation, and policies aimed at revitalizing manufacturing and addressing income inequality.

Healthcare—an issue centered in much political conversation—is even more crucial after the lasting impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. Voters are weighing the strengths and shortcomings of the healthcare system, with some advocating for universal coverage while others emphasize market-based reforms. Reproductive rights also play a significant role, particularly after the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which left abortion regulations to individual states and intensified the debate over bodily autonomy and state intervention.

On the global front, foreign policy is increasingly important. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has tested America’s relationships with allies and adversaries alike, and voters are considering candidates’ approaches to national security, military alliances, and strategies for handling geopolitical tensions.

Meanwhile, concerns about climate change have become more urgent, especially as natural disasters continue to affect millions across the country. Environmental policies and proposals for clean energy transition will be significant factors for many Americans.

Lastly, the 2024 election also features debates over the integrity of American democracy. Following disputes about the 2020 election results, election security and voter access have become pivotal. Conversations about safeguarding voting rights, redistricting, and the role of misinformation are shaping how people view both their trust in democratic institutions and the candidates running for office.

Against this backdrop, voters are tasked with educating themselves about each candidate’s stance on these critical issues. While party affiliations are familiar to many, understanding the individuals behind these platforms is essential. As you explore the profiles of Kamala Harris, Tim Walz, Donald Trump, and JD Vance, consider how their experiences and values inform their policies and what their leadership could mean for the future of the nation.

Meet the Candidates:

Getting educated about current issues and candidates is a critical aspect of voting. As many already know, Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Governor Tim Walz, are the Democratic nominees in the 2024 presidential election, with former President Donald Trump and Senator JD Vance running as the Republican nominees. 

Vice President Kamala Harris has had a long career in the political and public spotlight. What started as a career as a prosecutor specializing in child sexual abuse has grown into becoming the Vice President of the United States. Her legal experience puts the Rule of Law and legal precedent at the forefront of her platform. Harris’s promise to Americans is to represent everyone despite who they vote for. After representing California for nearly ten years, she knows what it is like to handle the competing views of a large population.

Governor Tim Walz, a name many did not know before being selected as the Democratic Vice-Presidential nominee, brings a new perspective to the Democratic ticket. Walz has championed the needs of working families, farmers, and rural communities in his career both as a Representative in the House and as Governor. His vast life experience, ranging from military service to being a high school social studies teacher, positions him as a well-rounded candidate who can tackle many issues.

Former President Donald Trump made history in 2016 by becoming the only president not to have political or military experience. This unique perspective provided a contrast to the traditional view of politicians. His business-oriented perspective has allowed him to speak on economic issues from a viewpoint many candidates cannot. He is seeking his second presidential term and to become the 45th and 47th President of the United States.

Senator JD Vance has represented Ohio since 2022. Much like Walz, Vance is from a small town in Ohio. His military experience, coupled with his career as a lawyer and venture capitalist, adds to the fact that the Republican ticket is not career politicians; they have vast experience outside of politics. Vance can discuss the issues facing rural parts of America, contrasting Trump’s expertise.

Your vote matters:

Regardless of political affiliation, we risk disenfranchisement from issues that will and do affect us.

Some people dismiss voting, believing it doesn’t matter or that “politics isn’t personal.” But the reality remains true: politics encompasses personhood. Even if we don’t feel directly affected, politics shapes everything from buying a house to the cost of gas. It impacts our friends, family, neighbors—all of us. Politics is personal. It’s the person checking out our groceries, the worker fixing our roads, and it’s us. Every policy decision touches our daily lives, making our engagement vital.

As we approach the 2024 elections, it’s important to remember that our democracy, as de Tocqueville called it, is “the great experiment,” relying on active participation to continue. This election is a chance to engage thoughtfully and consider the values that shape our nation. How you vote is your choice, and that right belongs to you alone. Every vote is a way to contribute to the principles that help keep us united and resilient, dictating if and how our ‘great experiment’ continues.

Want more information? Here are some non-partisan resources;

• Vote.org: Offers a simple way to check your voter registration status, register to vote, and set election reminders. 
• National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) – Can I Vote: Provides state-specific information for voter registration and polling locations. 
• Rock the Vote: Focuses on empowering young voters with registration tools and election resources.
• League of Women Voters: A nonpartisan organization offering resources to inform and help voters register. 
• When We All Vote: A national nonprofit encouraging voter participation in a nonpartisan way.