Presidential Election 2024: Who is Running?
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, the race for the next president of the United States has gotten off to a slow start. Several potential candidates have already declared their candidacy, while others are rumored to be entering the contest. Among these candidates is Nikki Haley, former Governor of South Carolina and former United Nations Ambassador under the Donald Trump administration.
State of the Race
Despite being the first prominent Republican candidate to challenge Donald Trump, Haley is yet to gain momentum in the polls. In a recent prime-time broadcast from CNN, Haley had the opportunity to make the case for her candidacy in front of a house full of Iowa Republicans. However, she failed to make headlines and catch voters’ attention
The Republican Race has become more competitive with the growing number of Republican candidates who are in or about to enter the race. The front runners of the Republican Party remain Donald Trump and Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida.
Contenders’ Stances on Abortion
One of the significant topics discussed during the CNN broadcast was the candidates’ stance on abortion. Haley toed a conservative line on social issues but displayed significantly less punitive rhetoric compared to Trump and DeSantis.
She deflected questions about supporting a federal six-week abortion ban, similar to South Carolina’s recent ban passing. She suggested it is unlikely a national restriction would be approved, so she would not prioritize the topic.
Lessons Learned from the CNN Town Hall
The CNN broadcast was mild, and the candidates’ stances on issues were typical Republican party positions before its takeover by Donald Trump’s populist politics. The event offered key takeaways that should be considered as the Presidential Race progresses.
Emphasis on Experience and Vision
During the CNN broadcast, Haley emphasized her experience and vision, which sets her apart from the current competition. Nevertheless, the discussion focused more on her past experiences and statements rather than giving the American people a glimpse of her vision for the country.
Candor and Politeness
During the CNN broadcast, Haley showed a lot of politeness and restraint. She did not weigh into her competition but, rather, suggested what she could bring to the table.
Her emphasis on candor and openness in government was visible throughout the event, stating that the American people deserved to be informed about the ongoing issues that affect them and the country as a whole.
Criticism of Trump and DeSantis
As a former UN ambassador, Haley is well-versed with foreign policy issues and calls out the current administration’s stance on Russia and North Korea. Trump’s approach towards Russian President Vladimir Putin and DeSantis’s social policies like “Don’t Say Gay” were called into question by Haley.
Advice
As the presidential election approaches, candidates must stand out by emphasizing their experience and vision for the country. They must focus on policies while avoiding polarizing rhetoric that could cost them the support of voters. Candor and openness to criticism are also significant aspects of a successful campaign.
The presidential election is an important event that decides who leads the country. Therefore, it is important that candidates engage in civil discussions based on policies that benefit all Americans rather than catering to a particular political ideology.
<< photo by Jeffrey F Lin >>
