2024 U.S. Election: 5 Major Issues Determining the Next White House Occupant

4th November 2024

3 minutes read

2024 U.S. Election: 5 Major Issues Determining the Next White House Occupant

The answers to major questions posed to Americans will determine, on the morning of November 6, the next occupant of the White House.

Regardless of their ability to fulfill campaign promises, it is the answers to five key issues that reflect the mood of the American electorate, which will ultimately shape the profile of the next president.

Economy

Following three years of high inflation, purchasing power has become a major concern for many Americans, making each candidate’s stance on economic policies a crucial factor.

The Republican candidate, former President Donald Trump, promised to impose a “more than 10%” tariff on all imports, asserting that this would allow him to finance larger tax cuts. During his previous term, he had already reduced taxes for corporations and the wealthiest Americans.

He also pledged to make the United States “the global capital for bitcoin and cryptocurrencies.”

Democratic candidate and Vice President Kamala Harris presents herself as the candidate of the middle class, promising to create an “economy of opportunities.” Though she has adopted some promises initially made by Joe Biden before he withdrew in her favor, she has made certain adjustments.

Immigration

On immigration, border control is “the top issue” for Trump, a sensitive topic in this campaign, as the United States saw a record number of undocumented immigrants arrive under Biden’s administration.

Harris, in a more defensive position, clarified that she would enforce a firm immigration policy, ensuring that those who enter illegally would face “consequences.” She also supported a Biden-proposed plan aimed at tightening immigration policy, including investments in physical barriers.

Abortion

The abortion issue may drive traditionally apolitical citizens, particularly women, to the polls, potentially favoring Democrats. Referendums on this topic are scheduled in ten states alongside the presidential election.

Since then, at least 20 states have imposed complete or partial bans on abortion.

Harris has made this issue central to her work as vice president and in her campaign, accusing her opponent of the current situation, which she describes as “appalling and troubling,” and calling for a federal law to secure this right.

Foreign Policy

Some voter groups are closely observing each candidate’s stance on ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine.

In contrast, Harris has pledged to stand “firmly with Ukraine” and to “avoid cozying up to tyrants.” Although both expressed support for Israel’s “right to defend itself,” the vice president has aimed for a more balanced message, acknowledging Palestinian suffering as well.

Climate

With the United States being the second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases after China, climate change is an important topic, though the candidates hold very different positions.

Trump, who questions the reality of climate change, has promised to reverse support for renewable energy and electric vehicles, to revive oil exploration, and to withdraw from the Paris Agreement.

Harris, meanwhile, has pledged to “continue and strengthen U.S. leadership on climate change.”