Donald Trump was reelected as the US President for a second term, prompting a reflection on how each campaign appealed to voters. Trump managed to connect with middle America, forming a coalition of supporters who focused on his economic vision while overlooking controversial aspects of his persona. In contrast, Harris struggled to clearly articulate her vision compared to Biden and Trump.
The race between Harris and Trump had been tight, with both candidates vying for battleground states and addressing international crises more prominently than in previous elections. Both campaigns acknowledged the growing importance of international politics in this election, as reflected by voters who ranked foreign policy as a key issue.
Election and Opportunity
Harris emphasized the need to build on Biden’s administration gains and prevent further damage to America’s global standing caused by Trump. Trump, on the other hand, focused on restoring America’s greatness, criticizing the world for not taking the US seriously enough.
Responding to Crises
A key point of contention between Harris and Trump was their approaches to the conflict in Ukraine. Harris advocated for continued US engagement, while Trump’s isolationist stance resonated with certain voters. Their differing views on international security underscored their contrasting visions for America’s role in global affairs.
US Global Standing
Foreign policy became a central issue in the 2024 election, with Trump’s disruptive approach contrasting Harris’s call for a return to normalcy. Despite challenges in Biden’s foreign policy record, Harris strived to differentiate her vision while aligning with the Biden administration’s stance.
