The United States of America has long since prided itself in being a democracy—a democracy built first and foremost on the voice of the people. While government officials may appear to sit at the top of the US power pyramid, the people decide who to hand over that power to.
The first US election was, of course, overwhelmingly unanimous, with none other than former General George Washington as the winner. This election featured parts similar to the modern-day polls, like the Electoral College, but also had a few differences. When the election of 1796 ended with a president and VP of different parties and the election of 1800 created thirty-six ties before a winner was selected, America realized the need for a change. One of the most critical characteristics of our democracy is its ability to adapt and evolve based on the needs of its people.
Now, the U.S. has reached its 60th election, and Americans are presented with the opportunity to make a choice. Amongst those Americans who will be voting in the 2024 election, there lie some of our very own Kingsway students. There are currently two major parties in the United States’ election system— the Democrats, and the Republicans.
The Republicans, politically, are conservatives; while their beliefs varied based on the candidate selected, this party supports lower taxes, gun rights, government conservatism, free market capitalism, free trade, deregulation of corporations, and restrictions on labor unions.
The Democrats, on the other hand, are liberals, and typically encourage a mixed economy, progressive tax system, higher minimum wages, Social Security, universal health care, public education, clean energy investments, and subsidized housing. Presidents were chosen to represent their respective parties through an event called the “National Convention.” In this event, each major party chooses its candidate for president, and the candidate’s vice presidential candidate is announced.
Our first candidate is one this country has seen before. Former President Donald Trump is part of the Republican Party and was president from 2016 to 2020. Trump was born in New York but graduated from Fordham University and the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Before becoming a politician, he was notable in real estate development and on the reality TV show “The Apprentice”.
While the COVID-19 crisis overshadowed his previous presidency and saw an abundance of tax cuts and immigration/foreign policy, this year, he has aimed to focus on economic problems and international threats. He supports policies encouraging national sovereignty, a self-sufficient economy, and domestic energy sources.
The Democratic candidate is Vice President Kamala Harris, a notable figure in the current political and governmental landscape. Even before landing in the vice presidential office, Harris was already successful in politics as she was a prosecutor earlier in her career. Her acts as vice president include preserving voting rights, a public-private partnership of Central America Forward (CAF), fighting for reproductive rights, reducing gun violence, improving maternal and infantile health, and investing in American infrastructure.
For her policies as a presidential candidate, she is bringing on themes of lower and middle-class aid, small business and labor focus, and safeguarding civil freedoms. These include the call for laws that make rent and mortgages more affordable, lower energy costs, and revive reproductive rights.
Here at Kingsway, students and faculty are curious, looking forward to the entirety of the electoral process; in fact, some of Kingsway’s very own seniors will be voting in the 2024 Presidential Election.
One such senior, Catherine Davidson said, “I feel like it is important to vote because you can help your country and be able to voice your concerns. Voting is a great way to be a change in your country or even in your community. I am voting this election so I can hopefully be a part of a change to our country and contribute to our community!” Catherine, similar to numerous seniors, is looking forward to utilizing her voice— voting for change!
The election process can seem daunting, especially for a brand-new voter in an ever-changing country, but the steps are easy to comprehend and follow through. First, citizens must register to vote, often with a deadline before the election day. This year, that date passed on October 15th. If you registered by then, you’re good to go!
Early voting started on October 26th and continued through November 3rd. Early voting can be done in person at various facilities (which are listed on the Official Site of the State of New Jersey). On election day (November 5th), registered voters casted their ballots in person— putting in the last of that year’s votes. The closest in-person polling location is nearby, just over at Kingsway Regional Middle School.
After voting ends, election officials count the votes using electronic or manual counting machines. Election results are tallied and reported, often starting with unofficial results on election night. Official results may take longer due to verification processes.
Afterward, election results are certified by the appropriate election authority. Post-election recounts or audits in close races may occur and the transition process for winning candidates to take office. For certain offices, the winning candidates are formally inaugurated and begin their term in office.
Voting gives the people of the United States a voice. Today, people from every corner of the nation come together to put a series of events into place that shape the trajectory of our society and aim to uphold the principles of democracy every step of the way. Every vote—from the youngest generation to the most experienced of people—counts in the creation of our nation.