In a few hours, specifically on Tuesday, November 5th, Americans, both at home and abroad, will go to the polls — both popular and electoral — to vote for their next president.
The world's most prominent democracy will be the center of global attention for many reasons, including foreign policy, the war in the Middle East, abortion, trade, immigration, and gun control, among other key issues.
This election also offers global observers a unique moment in history.
For the first time, a former president will run against female candidates in two separate elections.
Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, first ran against former First Lady Hillary Clinton in 2016.
Now, he is competing against the first Black female candidate from the Democratic Party, Kamala Harris.
Kamala Harris, a Black American of mixed heritage, has a Jamaican father and an Indian mother.
She was born in 1964 in California, USA. Her father was a student when he met her mother, and their relationship led to marriage and the birth of Kamala.
Unfortunately, the couple divorced in 1971, when Kamala was just seven, leaving her mother with the responsibility of raising her.
Kamala grew up in California with her mother and half-siblings.
Over the years, she developed into a fighter, lawyer, and advocate for equal rights and female inclusion in public service, standing up for women who have suffered social injustice.
Throughout her career, Kamala has consistently shattered glass ceilings, especially in the male-dominated legal field.
She became California's first female Attorney General, prevailing over other prominent lawyers with impressive credentials.
During her student years, she also served as the first Black woman president of her law school at the University of California.
Kamala Harris has achieved remarkable feats in the public arena. She made history as the Democratic Party's first Black female vice-presidential nominee when she ran with Joe Biden, who secured the Democratic presidential nomination in 2020.
Today, history seems to be repeating itself, reminiscent of when former President Barack Obama defied expectations to rise against a formidable political structure, despite analysts giving him little chance of winning.
Kamala’s journey is a symbol of hope for many women, particularly those of mixed race, showing that given the opportunity, they can achieve what was once thought impossible — especially in a male-dominated field like public office. She has demonstrated to women everywhere that with determination, focus, and belief, anyone can achieve their dreams in a free society like the United States.
It’s important to note that some states will play a pivotal role in the outcome of the election. Around eight key states could determine the 2024 presidential winner.
Arizona, with 11 electoral votes; Georgia, with 16; and Michigan, with 15, are crucial.
New Hampshire, with its 4 electoral votes, hasn’t leaned Republican since the 2000 election.
Other battleground states include Nevada (6 electoral votes), where Republicans have not won in the last four presidential cycles, though the margins have been narrow.
Trump lost Nevada in both 2016 and 2020 by fewer than 3 percentage points.
North Carolina, with 16 electoral votes, is another state Democrats are counting on.
Barack Obama won there in 2008 — the first Democrat to do so since Gerald Ford in 1976.
Pennsylvania, with 19 electoral votes, is traditionally Democratic, though Trump claimed it in 2016, only for Biden to reclaim it in 2020.
Wisconsin, with 10 electoral votes, is another crucial state. It has swung between both parties in recent elections and recently elected a left-leaning candidate in a high-profile judicial race, indicating potential support for Democrats in this election.
Kamala Harris has campaigned vigorously, visiting all states across the US.
She has presented her promises to uplift Americans and deliver better policies than her unpredictable opponent.
At this point, her fate rests with the voters, who will soon cast their ballots, thinking about the future they want.
Americans, especially immigrants and the disadvantaged, should remember which leaders truly support their interests. As the saying goes, they should avoid a return to “Egypt.”
As for the Electoral College, I hope it favours Kamala. The Democrats have what it takes to improve the nation, unlike an opponent who once tried to undermine American democracy and has yet to show any remorse.
Today, as the world watches and millions are glued to their screens awaiting the election outcome, the suspense, anxiety, and hope echo the atmosphere of 2008 when Barack Obama made history as the first Black President of the United States.
This time, however, the historic moment could belong to Kamala Harris.
•Emeka Monye is a journalist with ARISE NEWS•
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