As the 2024 presidential election approaches, both major parties have finalized their nominees, while a host of third-party candidates have also thrown their hats into the ring. Below is a breakdown of the key candidates vying for the presidency.
Major Party Nominees
Democratic Nominee: Kamala Harris
Following President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race on July 21, 2024, Vice President Kamala Harris quickly emerged as the Democratic nominee, securing the necessary support from pledged delegates. If elected, Harris would make history as the first Black woman and first Asian American to lead the ticket of a major political party.
Background
Harris has a rich political history; she’s served as Vice President, US Senator from California, California Attorney General, and the District Attorney of San Francisco. Known for her prosecutorial questioning style, she gained prominence during high-profile hearings involving Trump administration officials.
Key Policy Issues
Harris’ campaign reflects commitments to elevating the working and middle-class, supporting union membership, ensuring dignified retirement living, combatting gun violence, and providing affordable health care. Her speeches echo a vision contrasting sharply with Trump's direction for the nation.
Vice Presidential Candidate: Tim Walz
Tim Walz, the current governor of Minnesota and Chair of the Democratic Governors Association, has endorsed Harris and is poised to be a vigorous advocate for the campaign. His previous experience includes serving in Congress, representing a conservative-leaning district, and working as a high school teacher.
Republican Nominee: Donald Trump
Former President Donald Trump continues to dominate Republican politics, seeking to reclaim the presidency he lost in 2020. His campaign aims to make him the second president in history to serve two nonconsecutive terms.
Background
Trump, a real estate mogul and former television star, has been a contentious figure, gaining notoriety for his unwavering denial of the 2020 election results. He faced legal challenges, including being found guilty in a hush money trial and facing charges related to his attempts to overturn the 2020 election.
Key Policy Issues
Trump has promised extensive changes to federal government functions, including significant cuts to social safety net programs. Additionally, he has vowed to pursue retribution against his political opponents and initiates a special prosecutor to investigate Biden and his family.
Vice Presidential Candidate: JD Vance
JD Vance, who was elected to the US Senate from Ohio in 2022, serves as Trump's running mate. Once a critic of Trump, Vance transformed into a key MAGA supporter and has built a solid reputation within Trump's loyalist base.
Third-Party Candidates
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.
Initially a challenger to Biden in the Democratic primary, Kennedy switched to an independent run after realizing his path to the nomination was blocked. He aims to attract voters dissatisfied with both major parties.
Background
Kennedy, a well-known figure in environmental law, has drawn significant attention for his controversial stances during the COVID-19 pandemic, often promoting anti-vaccination rhetoric.
Key Policy Issues
Kennedy has vowed to withdraw support for Ukraine, negotiate an end to the Russia-Ukraine war, and impose a five-year lobbying ban on former officials. He also promotes strict accountability for government officials who mislead the public.
Vice Presidential Candidate: Nicole Shanahan
Shanahan, a Silicon Valley attorney and entrepreneur, is independently wealthy and has contributed significantly to Kennedy’s campaign. She focuses on issues such as reproductive health and criminal justice reform.
Cornel West
Cornel West's campaign has taken several turns, beginning with an attempt to run for the People’s Party before pivoting to an independent bid. He seeks to gain support from voters disaffected by Biden's policies.
Background
West is a notable progressive scholar with experience teaching at prestigious institutions. His activism and scholarship focus on racial justice and social equity.
Key Policy Issues
West's platform includes pushing for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza, repealing military aid to Ukraine, enacting universal healthcare, and advocating for reparations.
Vice Presidential Candidate: Melina Abdullah
Abdullah is a professor and civic leader with roots in the Black Lives Matter movement. Her experience enriches West’s platform, focusing on social justice and community activism.
Jill Stein
Jill Stein transitioned from campaign manager for Cornel West to seeking the Green Party nomination after his independent run. Her campaign focuses heavily on opposition to Biden's policies.
Background
Stein has a long history as an environmental activist and has previously run for office, including the Green Party presidential nominations in 2012 and 2016.
Key Policy Issues
Stein advocates for ambitious climate policies, reversing military support for Israel and Ukraine, and offering free public education across all levels.
Vice Presidential Candidate: To Be Determined
Stein has yet to announce her vice presidential choice.
Chase Oliver
Chase Oliver emerged as the Libertarian nominee after vigorous competition and has gained traction by appealing to centrist voters dissatisfied with both major parties.
Background
Oliver has a background in political activism and has previously run for political office as a Libertarian candidate.
Key Policy Issues
He advocates for the expansion of immigration pathways, withdrawal from foreign conflicts, decriminalizing drugs, and eliminating the Federal Reserve.
Vice Presidential Candidate: Mike ter Maat
Ter Maat, a retired police officer, brings a rich background in economics and law enforcement, complementing Oliver’s platform.
