US Voters Brace for a Pivotal Election as Kamala Harris and Donald Trump Face Off
The United States anticipates a historic presidential election featuring Vice President Kamala Harris as the first woman of color leading a major party ticket against former President Donald Trump. The election, crucial for both U.S. domestic and foreign policy, is marked by rising voter anxiety over economic issues, potential unrest, and the integrity of the electoral process. Polls indicate a close race, underscoring a precarious moment for voters who are concerned about the implications of their choices.
The upcoming presidential election in the United States represents a critical juncture, as it will be the first time a woman of color leads a major party ticket. Vice President Kamala Harris has stepped in as the Democratic candidate, contending against former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee. This election not only poses significant ramifications for the political landscape within the U.S. but also carries weighty implications for global politics. According to Misha Glenny, rector of the Institute for Human Sciences in Vienna, “Just under 2 percent of the world’s population have the right to go to the polls in November to decide who will be the next US president.” With approximately 96 million Americans likely to cast their votes, the election will heavily influence the direction of U.S. foreign policy. Political anthropologist David Vine remarked, “We are in an incredibly dangerous moment, whoever wins the election,” reflecting the stakes involved in this contest. American voters are currently grappling with pressing domestic issues such as rising immigration concerns, educational reforms, and economic struggles, with 56 percent experiencing financial difficulties. Polls indicate a tendency for voters to trust Donald Trump more concerning economic matters, thereby potentially jeopardizing Harris’s campaign. Amidst these issues, there are rising fears about potential unrest, as a recent Scripps News/Ipsos poll found that 62 percent of respondents believed violence after Election Day was “very likely” or “somewhat likely,” encompassing sentiments from both Republicans (59 percent) and Democrats (70 percent). Despite Kamala Harris holding a slight advantage in the polls, her lead has been diminishing. Key issues for voters include abortion rights and LGBTQ+ protections, particularly in light of the previous administration’s efforts to roll back such protections. Concerns over the electoral process itself also loom large, as the U.S. employs an Electoral College system that often fails to reflect the national popular vote accurately. Mark Herman Schwarz of the University of Virginia noted, “You could theoretically win the Electoral College with about 35 percent of the total popular vote.” He explained that reforming this system would be complex, given its constitutional entrenchment and the need for substantial bipartisan support.
This article discusses the implications of the upcoming U.S. presidential election, marking a significant moment as Vice President Kamala Harris becomes the first woman of color to lead a major party ticket. Against former President Donald Trump, the election is poised to influence not only the domestic politics of the U.S. but also international relations. With economic concerns, societal issues such as immigration and abortion, and fears of post-election violence, voters are approaching this election with heightened anxiety regarding its impact.
The impending presidential election in the United States stands as a critical moment defined by its unique candidates, pressing domestic issues, and international implications. With voter sentiments showing concern over economic management, societal rights, and the stability of the electoral process, the stakes could not be higher. The growing fears surrounding potential violence and unrest further complicate the electoral landscape. Ultimately, the outcome of this election will resonate beyond U.S. borders, reshaping not only national policies but also global dynamics.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
