5-11-2024 (WASHINGTON) On the eve of one of America’s most consequential elections, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump delivered their closing arguments to a deeply divided nation poised to either elect its first woman president or return Trump to the White House in an unprecedented comeback.
With polls indicating a virtual deadlock, both candidates staged strategic final rallies in crucial battleground states. Harris, who assumed the Democratic nomination just three months ago following President Biden’s withdrawal, drew thousands to Philadelphia’s iconic “Rocky” steps, joined by cultural powerhouses Lady Gaga and Oprah Winfrey.
“This could be one of the closest races in history,” Harris told supporters, embracing her underdog status while expressing confidence in victory. The 60-year-old Democrat’s message stressed unity and reproductive rights, whilst promising a “fresh start” after years of political turbulence.
Trump, 78, rallied supporters in Grand Rapids, Michigan, painting a stark picture of American decline while promising to lead the nation to “new heights of glory.” Notable was the absence of his wife Melania at what could be his final campaign event.
Early voting figures show unprecedented engagement, with over 82 million ballots already cast. The tiny hamlet of Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, maintaining its tradition of midnight voting, recorded a symbolic dead heat with three votes each.
The election’s global implications have drawn intense international attention, particularly regarding America’s stance on conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, and climate change policy. Trump’s suggestion he might reject unfavourable results has raised concerns about potential civil unrest, prompting businesses in Washington to board up windows as a precaution.
Security concerns have heightened following a July assassination attempt on Trump and a subsequent foiled plot, underscoring the volatile political climate.
