US Presidential Race: Harris and Trump Neck and Neck
As the clock ticks down to the end of voting in the 2024 US presidential election, Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump are in a fierce battle for the presidency. With over 75 million voters participating, recent polls indicate a strikingly close race, reflecting the deep polarization within American society. Experts suggest that while final outcomes remain uncertain, the polarization could significantly influence voter turnout and preferences.
The Impact of Voter Polarization
Gregory Coger, a political science professor at the University of Miami, emphasizes that most voters have already made their decisions, with only a small number remaining undecided as the election approaches. This polarization means that both campaigns are concentrating their efforts on mobilizing their bases and appealing to hesitant voters. Candice Toretto, director of the Applied Political Analysis Program at Maryland State University, adds that the American electoral college system complicates the prediction of results, as states allocate their electoral votes based on majority wins, making it difficult for third-party candidates to gain traction.
Challenges in Counting Votes and Certifying Results
Experts warn that some states may take up to two weeks to finalize vote counts, as seen in previous elections. Coger predicts that while the will of the voters will ultimately guide the outcome, legal challenges could introduce delays and confusion. Toretto reassures that strict rules govern the certification of results, meaning that allegations of voter fraud, while prevalent in discourse, do not hold legal weight. As the race continues, the dynamics between various voter demographics, particularly among young and minority voters, will be critical to watch.
