2024 Presidential Election: Key Candidates and Early Projections

The 2024 U.S. presidential election has been one of the most anticipated political events in recent history. With intense debates, unexpected developments, and shifting voter priorities, this election reflects the evolving dynamics of American democracy. While the final outcome became official in November 2024, the buildup to the vote was shaped by a diverse field of candidates, key political issues, and a highly engaged electorate.

This article explores the major players in the 2024 race, the early projections that shaped the national conversation, and what it all means for the future of American politics.

A Historic Election from the Start

From the moment the campaign season kicked off, it was clear that the 2024 presidential election would be unlike any in recent memory. Political analysts and voters alike were captivated by not only the candidates but the high stakes involved. With the nation grappling with inflation, climate change, international tensions, immigration reform, and technological disruption, this election became a referendum on the direction of the country.

Two key developments stood out: former President Donald Trump's decision to run again after his 2020 loss and President Joe Biden’s late-stage decision to not seek re-election. These moves reshaped the field and made way for a dramatic contest.

Key Candidates in the 2024 Presidential Race

1. Donald J. Trump – Republican Party

Former President Donald Trump returned to the political stage with renewed energy. Having maintained strong support within the Republican base since leaving office, Trump announced his candidacy early and quickly became the frontrunner in the GOP primaries.

Key Points:

Campaign focused on “America First 2.0,” promising tough immigration policies, economic nationalism, and reduced federal regulations.
Strong support among conservative voters, particularly in rural and working-class regions.
Chose Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio as his running mate, signaling a populist, outsider message.

Despite legal investigations and political controversies, Trump’s base remained solid, and he effectively outmaneuvered Republican challengers such as Ron DeSantis, Nikki Haley, and Vivek Ramaswamy during the primaries.

2. Kamala Harris – Democratic Party

When President Joe Biden announced in mid-2024 that he would not seek a second term, Vice President Kamala Harris quickly emerged as the Democratic frontrunner. As the sitting VP, she had the advantage of incumbency without the burden of Biden’s age concerns that had become a talking point.

Key Points:

First Black and South Asian woman to be nominated for president by a major party.
Championed issues like reproductive rights, climate change, student loan relief, and healthcare expansion.
Selected Governor Tim Walz of Minnesota as her vice-presidential candidate, appealing to midwestern moderates.

Harris’ campaign emphasized unity, social justice, and economic resilience, but faced challenges from more progressive elements within her party who supported candidates like Bernie Sanders and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez during the early stages.

3. Independent and Third-Party Candidates

2024 also saw a renewed interest in third-party candidates. While they remained long shots, they did influence the policy debate and pulled support from voters dissatisfied with the two-party system.

Notable names included:

Cornel West, running on a Green platform.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., initially a Democrat, ran as an independent with a populist message focused on vaccine skepticism and corporate reform.
No Labels Movement, which floated a centrist “unity ticket,” though ultimately no formal candidate was nominated.

These campaigns added complexity to polling and projections, particularly in swing states.

Key Issues That Shaped the Election

The 2024 election wasn’t just about personalities—it was about the future of America. Several core issues dominated town halls, debates, and campaign ads.

1. The Economy

Inflation remained a top concern, especially after a volatile 2023. While unemployment stayed low, high housing costs and interest rates led many Americans to feel economically squeezed.

2. Abortion Rights

Since the overturning of Roe v. Wade in 2022, abortion access became a galvanizing issue, especially for younger voters and women. Kamala Harris made it a centerpiece of her campaign.

3. Climate and Energy

Wildfires, hurricanes, and record heatwaves pushed climate change to the forefront. Voters debated between green investments and energy independence via fossil fuels.

4. Immigration

Southern border security and undocumented migration remained hot-button issues, with Republicans calling for stricter enforcement and Democrats advocating for a humane overhaul.

5. Tech Regulation and AI

Rapid developments in artificial intelligence and data privacy brought big tech into the spotlight. Both parties acknowledged the need for regulation, but solutions differed widely.

Early Projections and Polling Trends

Battleground States

From early 2024 through Election Day, several swing states remained closely contested:

Pennsylvania
Georgia
Arizona
Wisconsin
Michigan
Nevada
North Carolina

Polls throughout the summer and fall showed tight margins, with leads fluctuating by the week. Harris often led in urban areas, while Trump maintained strength in rural counties.

Youth and Minority Turnout

Early projections suggested a high turnout among Gen Z and millennials, who leaned more liberal on social issues but remained skeptical about establishment politics. Meanwhile, Republicans made gains among Latino and working-class Black voters, especially men.

Mail-In and Early Voting

After pandemic-era reforms, mail-in voting remained widely popular, especially among Democrats. Republicans pushed for tighter voting regulations, citing concerns about election integrity.

Media, Misinformation, and Debates

Social Media Influence

Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter) played an outsized role in shaping political narratives. Influencers, both political and non-political, became key opinion leaders among young voters.

Debates and Town Halls

The presidential debates drew record viewership. Harris showcased a policy-focused approach, while Trump leaned into populist rhetoric and attacked the media and elite institutions. One key debate moment involving a clash over immigration policy went viral and influenced public sentiment in swing states.

Fake News and Disinformation

Despite efforts from platforms and fact-checkers, fake news spread widely. False claims about voter fraud, candidate health, and foreign interference added confusion to the campaign.

Election Day and Results

Held on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, the general election saw high turnout across the country. Major media outlets began publishing projections as early results came in.

While the final certified results were not declared until days later due to close margins and mail-in ballot counts, Donald Trump emerged victorious, reclaiming the White House in a historic comeback.

Final Electoral College Breakdown (Unofficial at the time of early projections):

Donald Trump / J.D. Vance – 312 electoral votes
Kamala Harris / Tim Walz – 226 electoral votes

The popular vote remained close, but Trump’s strong performance in key swing states made the difference.

What the 2024 Election Means for America’s Future

The 2024 election marks a turning point in U.S. political history. It reaffirms the deep divide in American society but also highlights voters’ desire for change, leadership, and accountability.

For the Republican Party:

Trump’s win revitalized the MAGA wing and sidelined traditional conservatives. The GOP, now solidly populist, faces questions about governance and unity.

For the Democratic Party:

Kamala Harris’ historic run inspired many, but the loss exposed internal fractures. The party may see a generational leadership shift as it prepares for 2028.

For American Democracy:

Voter engagement remains high, but polarization, misinformation, and mistrust in institutions continue to challenge the democratic process.

The 2024 presidential election will be remembered as a pivotal moment in American history. It featured high-stakes battles, unprecedented candidates, and issues that will shape the nation's future for decades. While one side claimed victory, the broader message is clear: Americans are more engaged than ever, and the path forward will require cooperation, innovation, and leadership.

As the country looks to 2025 and beyond, one thing is certain—American democracy is alive, evolving, and still full of surprises.