Why the 2024 US Election Matters More Than You Think

The 2024 U.S. election is not just another routine election; its outcome could ripple across global markets, international diplomacy, and climate change policy.

 

While many focus on domestic shifts, the stakes for the world are higher than ever. From economic alliances to geopolitical tensions, this election holds the power to reshape international dynamics in ways most people may not yet realize.

First things first, let's talk about the immense power and influence that the United States holds on the global stage. As one of the most powerful nations in the world, the US plays a crucial role in shaping international policies, economies, and relationships. Any changes in US leadership have far-reaching consequences that ripple across the globe.

 

As of 2024, several key candidates are running for the U.S. presidential election, each bringing their unique policies and perspectives that could shape both the country and the world.  Here is an updated list of the prominent candidates running for the 2024 U.S. presidential election, including Kamala Harris, Donald J. Trump, Cornel West, Jill Stein, and Chase Oliver.

Democratic Party

1. Joe Biden

  • Current Role: Incumbent President of the United States.
  • Background: Joe Biden has served as the 46th President since 2021 and was previously the Vice President under Barack Obama from 2009 to 2017. With decades of experience in public service, including a long tenure as a U.S. Senator from Delaware, Biden brings extensive political and legislative expertise to his campaign.
  • Platform Highlights:
    • Economic Recovery: Focus on rebuilding the economy post-pandemic through infrastructure investments, job creation, and supporting small businesses.
    • Healthcare: Strengthening and expanding the Affordable Care Act to provide more Americans with access to affordable healthcare.
    • Climate Change: Implementing comprehensive policies to address climate change, including transitioning to renewable energy sources and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
    • Social Justice: Advancing racial equity, criminal justice reform, and protecting voting rights.
    • Foreign Policy: Restoring global alliances, promoting democracy, and taking a firm stance against authoritarian regimes.

2. Kamala Harris

  • Current Role: Vice President of the United States.
  • Background: Kamala Harris made history as the first woman, first Black, and first South Asian Vice President. Prior to her vice presidency, she served as a U.S. Senator from California and as the Attorney General of California. Known for her work on justice reform and advocacy for marginalized communities, Harris brings a wealth of legal and legislative experience.
  • Platform Highlights:
    • Justice Reform: Continuing efforts to reform the criminal justice system, including ending mass incarceration and addressing systemic racism.
    • Economic Equality: Advocating for policies that close the wealth gap, including affordable housing initiatives and increasing the minimum wage.
    • Healthcare Access: Supporting universal healthcare coverage and reproductive rights.
    • Education: Investing in education by making college more affordable and expanding early childhood education programs.
    • Climate Action: Supporting aggressive policies to combat climate change and promote environmental justice.

 

Republican Party

3. Donald J. Trump

  • Current Role: 45th President of the United States (2017-2021); Businessman and Media Personality.
  • Background: Donald Trump seeks a return to the White House after serving one term as president. His tenure was marked by significant tax reforms, conservative judicial appointments, and a focus on immigration and trade policies. He remains a polarizing figure with a strong base of support within the Republican Party.
  • Platform Highlights:
    • "America First" Policy: Prioritizing American interests in trade deals, foreign policy, and economic initiatives.
    • Immigration: Continuing efforts to secure borders, including strict immigration enforcement and policies.
    • Economy: Advocating for tax cuts, deregulation, and policies aimed at boosting American manufacturing and energy independence.
    • Healthcare: Repealing and replacing the Affordable Care Act with market-based solutions.
    • Foreign Policy: Maintaining a tough stance on China and Iran, and reevaluating U.S. involvement in international alliances and agreements.

 

Green Party

4. Cornel West

  • Current Role: Philosopher, Political Activist, and Author.
  • Background: Cornel West is a prominent intellectual known for his work on issues of race, class, and justice. With a career spanning academia and activism, West brings a progressive and transformative agenda to his campaign, aiming to address systemic inequalities and promote social justice.
  • Platform Highlights:
    • Economic Justice: Implementing policies such as a living wage, universal basic income, and wealth redistribution to address economic disparities.
    • Healthcare: Establishing a single-payer, universal healthcare system.
    • Education: Providing free public education from preschool through college.
    • Climate Change: Enacting a Green New Deal to transition to 100% renewable energy and create green jobs.
    • Criminal Justice Reform: Overhauling the justice system to end mass incarceration and eliminate private prisons.

5. Jill Stein

  • Current Role: Physician and Political Activist; Former Green Party Presidential Candidate.
  • Background: Jill Stein has been a prominent figure in the Green Party, running as their presidential candidate in 2012 and 2016. Known for her advocacy on environmental issues, healthcare, and social justice, Stein continues to influence progressive politics.
  • Platform Highlights:
    • Green Economy: Transitioning to renewable energy sources and creating sustainable jobs.
    • Healthcare: Implementing Medicare for All to provide comprehensive healthcare coverage.
    • Education: Eliminating student debt and providing tuition-free public education.
    • Democracy Reform: Promoting electoral reforms such as ranked-choice voting and reducing corporate influence in politics.
    • Peace and Diplomacy: Reducing military spending and engaging in diplomatic solutions to international conflicts.

 

 

Libertarian Party

6. Chase Oliver

  • Current Role: Businessman and Political Activist.
  • Background: Chase Oliver gained attention during his 2022 run for the U.S. Senate seat in Georgia, where he advocated for libertarian principles. As a proponent of individual liberties and limited government, Oliver brings a fresh perspective to the Libertarian Party's platform.
  • Platform Highlights:
    • Civil Liberties: Protecting individual freedoms, including free speech, privacy rights, and criminal justice reform.
    • Economic Policy: Promoting free-market capitalism, reducing taxes, and minimizing government intervention in the economy.
    • Foreign Policy: Advocating for non-interventionism and reducing U.S. military involvement abroad.
    • Drug Policy Reform: Supporting the decriminalization and legalization of cannabis and addressing the war on drugs.
    • Healthcare: Encouraging a market-based healthcare system with increased competition and consumer choice.

Other Notable Candidates

7. Cornel West

  • Current Role: Philosopher, Political Activist, and Author.

These candidates each represent different visions for the future of the United States, and their policies will significantly influence international relations, global trade, and efforts to tackle global challenges such as climate change and public health. The outcome of the 2024 election will determine which path the U.S. will take in its engagement with the world.

 In this article, we’ll explore how the results of the 2024 U.S. election might affect various aspects of the world stage.

 

 1. Economical consequences 

The 2024 U.S. presidential election is poised to be a pivotal event with far-reaching consequences not only for the United States but also for the rest of the world. The U.S., being one of the most influential nations globally, has a significant impact on international relations, global economics, and environmental policies. The election’s outcome could shape the trajectory of global politics, trade dynamics, and multilateral engagements for years to come.

The U.S. is a major player in the global economy, and the administration’s approach to economic policies can have ripple effects worldwide. If the election results in a continuation of current policies, we might see a sustained focus on American manufacturing and reduced reliance on global supply chains. This could lead to further trade tensions, especially with countries like China, as the U.S. might continue to prioritize tariffs and protectionist policies to shield its industries.

On the other hand, a shift in administration could lead to renewed efforts to strengthen multilateral trade agreements and partnerships, such as rejoining the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) or renegotiating trade deals with the European Union. A more open trade policy could foster global economic growth, as it would likely reduce barriers and enhance international cooperation.

 

2. Climate Change and Environmental Policies

The U.S.’s stance on climate change is crucial in the global fight against environmental degradation. The 2024 election could significantly impact international climate policies, depending on the administration's priorities. A victory for a candidate who prioritizes climate action could mean stronger U.S. commitments to the Paris Agreement, increased funding for renewable energy, and a push for global environmental standards.

Alternatively, if the administration deprioritized climate change, there could be setbacks in global efforts to curb greenhouse gas emissions. The U.S., being one of the largest carbon emitters, plays a critical role in setting the pace for global climate initiatives. A lack of commitment from the U.S. could lead to a slowdown in global climate progress, making it harder for other nations to meet their environmental goals.

 

3. International Relations and Geopolitical Stability

The U.S. election results will likely have a profound impact on global geopolitical stability. A continuation of current foreign policies might mean a sustained confrontational approach towards China and Russia, potentially escalating tensions in already volatile regions like the South China Sea and Eastern Europe. This could lead to a more polarized world, with countries forced to choose sides in an increasingly divided global landscape.

Conversely, a new administration could seek to mend relationships and reduce tensions through diplomacy and multilateral engagement. This might involve re-entering or renegotiating arms control agreements, reducing military posturing, and engaging in more constructive dialogue with adversaries. Such an approach could help stabilize global hotspots and reduce the risk of conflict.

 

4.Human Rights and Democracy Promotion

The U.S. has long positioned itself as a champion of democracy and human rights around the world. The approach of the next administration could either reinforce or undermine this role. A government committed to promoting human rights might place greater emphasis on supporting democratic movements, condemning authoritarian regimes, and using diplomatic and economic tools to encourage democratic governance.

However, if the administration deprioritized these issues, we could see a decline in U.S. influence in promoting democracy and human rights. This might embolden authoritarian regimes, leading to further repression and instability in various regions. The U.S.’s stance on these issues also affects its alliances, with democratic countries looking to the U.S. for leadership and support.

5. Immigration and Refugee Policies

U.S. immigration policies have global implications, particularly for countries in the Global South that are sources of migration. The 2024 election could bring significant changes in how the U.S. handles immigration, refugee intake, and border security. A more restrictive approach might result in tightened borders and reduced refugee admissions, which could exacerbate humanitarian crises in conflict zones.

Alternatively, a more open immigration policy could provide relief to countries burdened by large refugee populations and improve the U.S.’s relations with neighboring countries. The U.S.’s approach to immigration can also influence global norms and inspire other countries to adopt similar policies, for better or worse.

6.Defense Spending and Global Arms Trade

The U.S. is one of the largest spenders on defense, and its policies can influence global arms trade and military dynamics. The 2024 election could determine whether the U.S. continues to expand its military capabilities or shifts focus towards diplomacy and international cooperation. High defense spending often correlates with increased global arms trade, which can exacerbate conflicts in volatile regions.

Alternatively, a reduction in defense spending and a focus on arms control agreements could help stabilize global security dynamics, reducing the risk of arms races and conflicts.

The 2024 U.S. election is more than just a domestic event; it’s a decision point that could reshape the global landscape in numerous ways. From economic policies and climate action to international relations and global health, the next administration’s choices will reverberate across the world. As the world watches, the stakes are high, and the implications of this election will be felt far beyond the borders of the United States. The future of global politics, trade, and international cooperation could hinge on the outcome of this pivotal election.

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