2024 First Time Voters

By R. Courtland
R. Courtland

The 2024 Presidential Election: What You Need to Know (No Boring Stuff)

So, you’re voting for the first time in 2024. Congrats! But now you’re faced with two major candidates who couldn’t be more different—Kamala Harris and Donald Trump. Don’t worry, we’re breaking it down for you in a way that’s quick and easy to understand, without the confusing political talk. Let’s dive into what each candidate stands for, the dirt from their past, and what could make or break their chances of becoming president.

Kamala Harris (Democratic Party)

Who She Is:
Kamala Harris is currently the Vice President and the Democratic candidate for president. Before that, she was a Senator and Attorney General of California. If elected, she’ll be the first woman, Black, and South Asian president—pretty historic stuff.

What She Stands For:

        • Criminal Justice Reform: She’s big on fixing the system, reducing mass incarceration, and ending cash bail.
        • Healthcare: She wants to make healthcare cheaper and more accessible for everyone.
        • Climate Change: Harris is serious about fighting climate change with renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions.
        • Women’s Rights: Strong advocate for reproductive rights, equal pay, and racial equality.

Pros:

        •       She’s all about civil rights and helping people who are often overlooked.
        •       Wants to make healthcare more affordable.
        •       A major symbol of change and representation.

Cons:

        •       Some say her past as a tough prosecutor doesn’t match her current stance on justice reform.
        •       Critics claim she hasn’t laid out a clear plan for fixing the economy.
        •       She’s got less experience leading on the national stage.

Donald Trump (Republican Party)

Who He Is:
You probably know him already—Trump was the 45th President and is now trying to make a comeback. A billionaire businessman before politics, Trump is all about shaking up the system with his “America First” style.

What He Stands For:

        • Economy: Trump promises lower taxes and fewer regulations, especially for businesses.
        • Immigration: He’s tough on immigration, still pushing for a stronger border.
        • Healthcare: Trump wants a more free-market system and less government involvement in healthcare.
        • Foreign Policy: He’s all about keeping the U.S. independent and less involved in global agreements.

Pros:

        •       The economy boomed before the pandemic under his leadership.
        •       He’s got a loyal base of supporters who believe in his outsider approach.
        •       Strong on national security and tough on immigration.

Cons:

        •       Polarizing—people either love him or hate him, no in-between.
        •       Widely criticized for his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
        •       Faces legal issues related to business dealings and the January 6 Capitol Riot.

Pros & Cons at a Glance:

        • Kamala Harris: Historic, civil rights-focused, healthcare advocate—but controversial criminal justice record and not as experienced as other leaders.
        • Donald Trump: Economic growth and national security champion—but divisive leadership and ongoing legal battles.

The Bottom Line

If you care about healthcare, climate change, and criminal justice reform, Harris might be your pick. But if you’re all about the economy, immigration, and keeping things tough on global issues, Trump’s your guy. Both have their pros and cons, and it all comes down to what matters most to you.

So get informed, vote, and make your voice count in 2024. This is your shot to shape the future! #GetOutAndVote2024 #TheGoodVote'24 

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