From the beginning of the current presidential campaign, it bore a striking resemblance to the previous one. The campaign rhetoric seemed familiar, with former President Donald Trump discussing a return to national glory and President Joe Biden promoting the restoration of a decent and normal United States. In March, Trump and Biden emerged as their parties’ presumptive nominees, marking the first presidential rematch since 1956.
Despite the perception of a repetitive campaign, many were unprepared for the unpredictable events that unfolded over the past year. While the ultimate outcome of the election remains unknown, it is noted that Americans have experienced one of the most eventful presidential campaigns in recent memory.
Questions regarding President Biden’s capability to serve a second term had been circulating for months after he accepted the Democratic nomination. The situation intensified following a debate in Atlanta in June, during which Biden’s performance prompted significant concern within the Democratic Party, leading to calls for him to withdraw from the race. However, Biden remained steadfast in his decision to continue.
In open commentary, former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi suggested that the decision to run was ultimately the President’s and urged a timely decision. Concurrently, a major incident impacted the Trump campaign when an assassination attempt occurred during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump was grazed by a bullet, while one individual was killed and two others critically injured. The Republican Party showed staunch support for Trump, with supporters wearing ear bandages in solidarity.
Amidst these events, President Biden contracted COVID-19 and subsequently announced the end of his campaign on July 21 via social media. He offered his endorsement to Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee, formalizing this decision in a subsequent address.
Vice President Harris faced a challenging campaign, rapidly introducing herself to voters and defining her policy agenda while selecting a running mate. On August 16, she announced Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her vice-presidential pick. The Democratic convention in Chicago celebrated Harris as the first woman of color to lead the Democratic ticket.
A significant debate between Harris and Trump took place on September 10 in New York City. The candidates discussed various policy issues, including economic strategies. Trump claimed that his economic policies were highly favorable according to polls, whereas Harris criticized his focus on tax cuts for the wealthy, promoting her own vision of an “opportunity economy.”
During the campaign, Trump made false statements regarding Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, alleging they were responsible for local issues, which resulted in threats against the community. Several days later, another potential threat to Trump’s safety occurred when a gunman was spotted at his golf club in West Palm Beach, though no harm was done.
For further insights, listeners are encouraged to tune in to the latest episode of “Consider This,” which provides an overview of the past year’s political climate.
