As the 2024 U.S. presidential election on the door-steps, the political scene is evolving, featuring key players from major parties and new voices from independents and third parties. President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump are currently leading their parties, creating a charged atmosphere for the upcoming election. After a tough debate, Biden stepped aside, allowing Vice President Kamala Harris to become the Democratic nominee. Trump, facing serious legal challenges and changes in the Republican Party, remains a strong candidate with a loyal following.

Vice President Harris brings extensive experience from her past roles as a senator from California and a prosecutor. However, her tenure has faced challenges. Initially tasked with addressing immigration reform and voting rights, her approval ratings have concerned Democratic donors and strategists. Despite these obstacles, Harris has secured the Democratic nomination, with her party rallying behind her campaign as they gear up for the general election.

On the Republican side, Trump is striving to reclaim the presidency after his controversial loss in 2020. His claim that the election was stolen has had lasting effects, including the January 6 Capitol riot. Nevertheless, his core supporters remain loyal, and he has managed to navigate legal issues while maintaining a strong presence in the Republican primaries. The division among his challengers has further solidified his frontrunner status.

Democratic nominee Tim Walz and Republican nominee JD Vance are also emerging as significant figures. Walz, with over twenty years in elected office, offers extensive experience to the Biden-Harris campaign. His time as a congressman from Minnesota has equipped him with valuable insights into bipartisan collaboration. In contrast, Vance has quickly risen within the GOP, gaining attention with his compelling personal story and conservative beliefs. Known for his bestselling memoir “Hillbilly Elegy,” Vance resonates with voters looking for new voices that address economic revitalization and cultural concerns.

The different backgrounds of Walz and Vance highlight broader trends within their parties. Walz’s experience reflects the Democratic desire for stability during uncertain times, while Vance’s rise shows the Republican shift toward populist sentiments and relatable candidates. As they prepare for debates and public appearances, their contrasting philosophies will emphasize key issues that matter to voters, making their candidacies crucial in shaping the 2024 election's outcome.

The election landscape also includes notable independent and third-party candidates. Cornel West, a well-known academic and activist recognized for his progressive stance, initially sought the nomination with the People’s Party but later shifted his focus to the Green Party and eventually decided to run as an independent. Jill Stein, a physician and familiar figure from previous Green Party campaigns, is once again pursuing the party’s nomination, advocating for an “economic bill of rights” that covers essential needs like healthcare and housing, while also emphasizing climate action and social justice.

Chase Oliver represents the Libertarian Party, gaining recognition as a former Democrat who champions social issues and opposes the Federal Reserve. He narrowly secured his party’s nomination and aims to make a mark in this election cycle.

According to the U.S. Constitution, presidential elections take place every four years. Candidates must meet specific criteria: they need to be natural-born citizens, at least 35 years old, and have lived in the U.S. for at least 14 years. The nomination process for the upcoming elections began in the winter of 2023 and involves several intricate steps, including primaries, caucuses, and conventions.

Each state plays a crucial role by appointing electors who cast their votes for president based on party nominations. This complex process includes various contests, each with its own rules about participation and vote counting.

One key aspect of the Democratic nomination process is the presence of superdelegates, influential party members who have not pledged their support to any candidate before the national convention. Although their influence has diminished over the years, they still account for a significant percentage of delegates, impacting the nomination dynamics.

The nomination process traditionally begins with the Iowa and New Hampshire caucuses, with each party following different sets of rules. For the Republican National Convention, a candidate needs to secure 1,277 out of 2,552 delegates. In comparison, the Democratic candidate requires at least 2,376 out of 4,750 delegates to be officially nominated.

As the election cycle unfolds, understanding the nomination process is vital for voters. The presidency not only holds immense power domestically but also carries significant influence on the global stage. Therefore, active engagement in this process is essential for shaping the nation's future.