As the 2024 general election approaches, and voters develop their notions regarding their choice for the future of the nation, information regarding all major contending candidates remains vital – especially for new voters. Here is an Optimist voter guide.
Former president Donald Trump – Republican Nominee (Running Mate: JD Vance)
After announcing his intention to pursue reelection in 2022, Trump has garnered immense support throughout the Republican party. His economic policy revolves around extensive corporate tax cuts and implementation of tariffs on internationally-shipped resources. Additionally, Trump’s immigration policies enforce strict border surveillance and will promote the deportation of undocumented immigrants. Trump states that one of his foremost plans is to significantly decrease entry of individuals from countries experiencing rampant corruption or crime – specifically alluding to Mexico, and seven designated Middle Eastern Muslim-majority nations. Trump also plans to significantly restrict bureaucratic federal agencies – including potentially abolishing the Department of Education – in an attempt to prioritize state government legislation and decision making. Moreover, Trump’s foreign policy revolves around isolationist values. Trump also states that he will prioritize elimination of global terrorist groups, and conclusion of international conflict.
Vice President Kamala Harris – Democratic Nominee (Running Mate: Tim Walz)
After Joe Biden’s decision to suspend his 2024 reelection bid – the first incumbent to do so since Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968 – Kamala Harris immediately received the overwhelming support of the Democratic party. Harris’ economic policy revolves around tax cuts for the American middle class. Harris also plans to implement a $6,000 tax cut to families with newborn children. Additionally, Harris prioritizes combating climate issues, as she states that her administration will attempt to cooperate with international agencies in regards to cleansing air, decreasing actions leading to pollution, etc. Additionally, Harris plans to decrease the cost of healthcare, and further eliminate medical debt. Harris’ foreign policy priorities revolve around frequent engagement with allies in NATO and other organizations, to counter Russian and Chinese military and political influence.
Others on the Indiana Ballot
Along with presidential candidates, Indiana will be electing numerous federal and state representatives.
US Senate: Democratic nominee Valerie McCray is seeking to emerge victorious against current congressional representative Jim Banks, of Indiana’s third district. McCray received over 150,000 votes in the democratic primary election, while Banks received over 475,000 in the Republican party’s unchallenged primary.
US House: Bloomington residents will be able to select their federal district representative this year. Incumbent republican Erin Houchin will attempt to retain her seat, as democratic challenger Timothy Peck appears on the ballot.
Governor: Current Republican senator Mike Braun announced his intention to vacate his legislative office to seek governorship. Democratic candidate Jennifer McCormick seeks to oppose Braun in November.
Indiana State Supreme Court: Mark S. Massa, a member of Indiana’s Supreme Court, is hoping to retain his seat. Additionally, Loretta H. Rush and Derek Molter will be on the ballot for the same purpose. Retention votes of “yes” and “no” will be options for voters.
MCCSC Board of Trustees: Although uncontested, current MCCSC school board incumbents are on the ballot this year. Candidates include Erin Cooperman (District 5), Ross Grimes (District 2), and April Hennessey (District 2). Elections come as the school board endures repercussions of previous controversial proposals by former MCCSC superintendent Jeff Hauswald, including high school schedule changes and elementary school merges.
Indiana’s voter registration deadline was on October 7th. Election Day is on November 5th, 2024.
