Trump, Harris make final push in a bid to get crowned as next U.S president

New Delhi, Nov 04: As the United States stands on the cusp of another presidential election, the world is watching the outcome closely and intently. With less than 24 hours left for Election Day on Tuesday, November 5, the political tension within America is gripping not only the country but also increasing concern among close global allies.

Vice President Kamala Harris is fighting against former President Donald Trump. The two candidates represent different visions for America's future. As suggested by analysts and key political observers, the polls and competition will be neck and neck.

The stakes are too high for both candidates, as both their teams and lobbyists are massively campaigning for a last push in critical swing states to win voters. These swing states are seen as deciding factors for the victory of the future US President.

Over 75 million Americans have already cast their ballots in early voting, reflecting extraordinary engagement in the current elections. The candidates have made their closing arguments with full force and ideology. Now it’s up to the voters to decide which vision they believe and want to accept. Will the country lean towards a return to republican candidate, Trump’s populist nationalism, or embrace Democrats Harris’s call for unity and progress?

Whatever the result, the challenges awaiting America’s next president are significantly large and not only include domestic concerns like inflation, and immigration but also international issues like the Russia-Ukraine war, the West Asia conflict, that directly affect the US security issues of their population and citizens. In addition, climate change, and global economic stability also continue to remain demanding issues. Political analysts and poll opinions suggest that the winner will have to navigate a divided Congress, deep-seated public discontent, and an electorate wary of the institutions that govern them.

In the last leg of their respective election campaign, both Harris and Trump focused on battleground states that may tip the balance. Trump, known for his fervent rally crowds, made stops in Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Georgia, while Harris campaigned across Michigan, including at a Detroit-area church, to reach out to communities’ key to the Democrats' strategy. Trump has revived his combative style, accused the “fake news” media, and stirred up his base by alleging election fraud, while Harris has adopted a message of unity and optimism, urging voters to shape the future of the nation.

Swing states play a critical role, and both candidates know it. Harris, addressing young voters at Michigan State University in East Lansing, framed this election as "one of the most consequential of our lifetime," striking a chord with voters who, she argues, can be part of a transformative movement. Her appeal is based on "common ground and common-sense solutions," focusing on issues such as climate change, healthcare, and economic opportunity, which resonate strongly with younger and minority voters in Michigan.

Trump, meanwhile, has leaned into his familiar themes of nationalism and economic resurgence, promising to bring about a "golden age of American prosperity." His rhetoric on the campaign trail, however, has been notably darker as reported by regional media. CNN reported that he recently told supporters that he “shouldn’t have left” the White House in 2020, a statement likely to fuel ongoing concerns about election integrity among his base. Trump’s running mate, Senator JD Vance, attempted to temper this tone, emphasising a unifying message, though even he couldn’t resist sharp criticisms of Harris and the Democrats.

Both candidates have different visions but share one goal: to galvanize their supporters in a handful of states where small margins may decide the outcome. Michigan, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin, in particular, could play an outsized role. With these swing states holding significant sway in the results, the candidates are leaving no stone unturned.

Security Concerns

The massive campaigning continued to remain a security concern, with at least two attempts on Trump at his early election rallies. This led to more heightened security across the country. In addition, across several states, US officials are preparing for potential unrest, post-election more so in cities like Philadelphia, Detroit, and Atlanta where accusations of voter fraud surfaced in 2020. The ballot-counting facilities are also being fortified with fencing and other security-related precautions.

In some states governors have mobilised National Guard units to be on standby. Washington and Oregon, are taking precautions and preparations to face any unrest related to election outcomes, a precautionary measure.

Officials are also bracing for a flood of misinformation and conspiracy theories that could further fuel tensions. As reported by the media, in Wisconsin, officials have trained poll workers on de-escalation tactics and reconfigured polling stations to ensure workers have exit routes if protests turn hostile amid growing anxiety that election results may not be accepted peacefully.

The polarising nature of this election reflects a larger issue in American politics. Trump and Harris represent ideologies that offer fundamentally different visions for America’s way-forward. While Trump appeals to an “America First” doctrine, prioritising economic growth, limited global engagement, and reduced immigration, Harris advocates for a more inclusive, globally engaged America. Her campaign promises a “new generation of leadership,” emphasising climate action, healthcare reform, and increased support for marginalized communities.

Former presidential candidate Nikki Haley summed up the dilemma in a recent Wall Street Journal op-ed, where she pointed to the “third group” of voters, those who may support Trump’s policies but find his rhetoric and actions troubling. This group could determine the final outcome, particularly in states like Pennsylvania and Michigan, where polls show no clear leader. Haley’s op-ed highlights the ambivalence felt by many who view Trump as both a champion of conservative policies and a divisive figure.

The Global Stakes

The impact of this election will not be confined to the United States but go beyond its borders. Europe, where the US is usually seen as a trusted ally, particularly in supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression, the prospect of a second Trump term has stirred awkwardness. Trump’s “America First” stance and criticisms of NATO have left several European leaders wary of a potential shift in US foreign policy should Trump return to office. These concerns are shared by other allies, especially as Washington’s stance toward global conflicts may change depending on the election’s outcome.

Equally, the stakes are high for US-China relations, which also remained a high central focus in the campaigns of both candidates. Harris and Trump agree on the need to address Beijing’s rise, but their approaches diverge. Harris has advocated for a cooperative stance that leverages alliances, while Trump’s rhetoric centres on economic confrontation and re-establishing American dominance. Either approach will have a significant consequence, not only for US-China relations but for the entire global order.

As the clock ticks down for the final countdown, Americans are left to consider what kind of leadership they believe can bridge the country’s divides and steer it through turbulent times.

The world eagerly waits to see which way the United States elections will go, knowing that the outcome will shape the global landscape for years to come, a role that remains as influential.