As tens of millions of voters across the United States prepare to cast their ballots for the 2024 presidential election, all eyes are on the polls set for November 5. This election holds significant global interest, as its outcomes could influence the worldwide economy and affect crucial international issues, including climate change and global supply chain dynamics.
The Election Timeline
The United States holds presidential and vice-presidential elections every four years. This cycle begins with an extensive primary process where the two major political parties—the Democratic Party and the Republican Party—select their candidates through state caucuses and primary elections. Delegates from all 50 states then formally nominate these candidates during national conventions.

In the 2024 election, former President Donald Trump represents the Republican Party, while the Democratic candidate is Vice President Kamala Harris. Harris officially secured the Democratic nomination in August after President Joe Biden decided to withdraw from the race in late July.
For several months, both candidates have been actively campaigning, urging voters to participate either through early voting or on election day, which is set for Tuesday, November 5, 2024.
A Historical Election Date
The choice of election day on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November traces back to a congressional rule established in 1845. During that era, the U.S. was predominantly agrarian, and the timing allowed those eligible to vote to do so after the harvest season and before winter set in.
In modern times, voters must register in their home states before the election. They have multiple options for casting their votes: they can mail in absentee ballots, vote early at designated polling places, or participate on election day itself.
The Electoral College Explained
It’s crucial to note that the U.S. presidential election does not operate on a direct popular vote system. Instead, it employs the Electoral College, a mechanism established by the Constitution. Each state is allocated several electoral votes corresponding to its representation in Congress, totaling 538 votes across all states. For example, California has 54 electoral votes, while Wyoming has three.
When citizens cast their votes, they are voting for a group of electors pledged to their chosen candidate. In most states, the candidate who receives the majority of the popular vote is awarded all of that state’s electoral votes—a process known as the winner-takes-all system. However, Maine and Nebraska utilize a proportional allocation for their electoral votes.
To win the presidency, a candidate must secure a majority of electoral votes, which is at least 270. Given the varying state rules for counting votes, it is not uncommon for the official election results to take several days or even weeks to finalize.
After the election, electors will convene in their respective state capitals to cast their votes for president and vice president. A joint session of Congress will be held in January to certify the election results, with the newly elected president set to take office on January 20, 2025.
Debates Surrounding the Electoral College
The Electoral College has been a contentious topic over the years, with critics arguing that it allows candidates to win the presidency without winning the popular vote. This situation occurred in the elections of 2016 and 2000, as well as three instances in the 19th century. Proponents of the system argue that it ensures a balanced representation of states, particularly smaller ones, in the electoral process.
Voter Turnout Trends
Voter turnout in the United States has seen an upward trend in recent elections. In 2020, over 158 million people participated in the presidential election, resulting in a turnout of 65.9% of the voting-age population—a notable increase from the 59.2% recorded in 2016. This surge reflects a growing engagement among American voters, likely driven by heightened political awareness and significant issues at stake.
Conclusion
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the eyes of the world remain fixed on the United States. The electoral process, steeped in history and tradition, will once again shape the future direction of the nation and, potentially, the global landscape. With early voting underway and campaign efforts reaching their peak, Americans are set to make their voices heard as they head to the polls on November 5. Whether through mail-in ballots, early voting, or casting their votes on election day, every decision made will play a pivotal role in determining the next chapter in U.S. political history.