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2024 Presidential Candidates

Former President Donald Trump is the Republican presidential candidate, while Vice President Kamala Harris is the Democratic candidate. President Joe Biden withdrew from the race on July 21 and endorsed Harris, who swiftly gained the backing of the necessary pledged delegates to clinch the Democratic nomination. Here's a look at the current 2024 presidential candidates.

Kamala Harris

Age59
PartyDemocrat
BornOakland, California
Early Life and Education
Kamala Harris was born on October 20, 1964, in Oakland, California, to immigrant parents who instilled in her a commitment to civil rights and social justice. Her father, Donald J. Harris, was a Jamaican economics doctoral student, and her mother, Shyamala Gopalan, came from India to study nutrition and endocrinology. Growing up in a diverse community, Kamala was shaped by her family’s activism in the civil rights movement, often attending marches as a child. She graduated from Howard University in 1986 and earned her law degree from the University of California College of the Law, San Francisco, in 1989.
What could a Harris presidency be like for Pakstan
Under Kamala Harris’s potential presidency, the US would be expected to continue building on the Biden administration's approach toward Pakistan. Harris would likely maintain security cooperation along the same lines it has under her Vice Presidency. Harris’s approach to China is perceived as less aggressive compared to Trump’s stance, offering Pakistan greater autonomy in managing its foreign policy and the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) without increased pressure. Many supporters of Imran Khan believe that a Trump presidency might facilitate his release from jail, however, US foreign policy priorities under wither presidency are likely to focus on broader issues rather than Khan’s personal situation. .

🔗 About Kamala Harris

Tim Walz

VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE
Age59
PartyDemocrat
BornOakland, California
Tim Walz was born on April 6, 1964, in West Point, Nebraska. A US Army National Guard veteran, he served on active duty for nearly 25 years. After high school, he attended Chadron State College, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in social studies education. He later received a Master’s degree in education from Minnesota State University.

🔗 Read more about Walz here.

Donald Trump

Age78
PartyRepublican
BornQueens, New York
Early Life and Business Career
Donald John Trump was born on June 14, 1946, in New York City, the fourth of five children in a family of real estate developers. He graduated from the Wharton School of Finance at the University of Pennsylvania in 1968 and joined his father’s real estate business. Trump expanded the family business, investing in luxury hotels and casinos, and gained national fame through the reality television show "The Apprentice," which significantly boosted his brand.
What could Pakistan expect next Weakened bilateral relation
Trump's focus on India and reduced engagement with Pakistan during his first term suggests a second Trump term could further weaken ties with Pakistan, especially with U.S. forces out of Afghanistan. Increased pressure against cooperation with China: Trump's likely tougher stance on China could place Pakistan's involvement in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) under scrutiny, forcing Pakistan to balance between U.S. and Chinese interests. Closer US-India Relations: Trump's presidency would likely bolster U.S.-India ties, especially through defense and technology cooperation, which could further marginalize Pakistan and strain its regional security situation. Security Assistance Cut-Off: Proposed US-India Defense Cooperation Act could restrict US security aid to Pakistan, further complicating Pakistan's defense concerns, especially if accused of sponsoring terrorism against India.

🔗 About Trump

JD Vance

VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE
Vance announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate in 2021, seeking to replace retiring Republican Senator Rob Portman. He won a competitive primary election in May 2022, endorsed by former President Donald Trump, and campaigned on a platform that emphasised traditional conservative values, economic growth, and support for American workers. Vance secured victory in the general election held on November 8, 2022.

🔗 Read more about Vance here.

Money Race

Third-party candidates

These are the candidates outside of the Republican Party and the Democratic Party who could be on the presidential ballot.

Cornel West: The Philosopher and Activist

Age71
PartyIndependent
BornTulsa, Oklahoma
Born to Make Waves
Folks, let’s talk about Cornel West—born on June 2, 1953, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. He’s a big name in American philosophy and a political activist who really knows how to stir the pot! His most famous book, Race Matters, hit the shelves in 1993 and pointed out the problems facing the African American community. West said there was a “spiritual impoverishment” happening and had some strong words about Black leadership in this country.
A Solid Foundation
Now, Cornel grew up in a solid working-class family. His dad was in the Air Force, and his mom was a teacher. They settled in a Black neighborhood in Sacramento, California. That’s where he got an earful of the struggles, faith, and resilience of people who had been through a lot—some of whom had grandparents who were slaves! He was also inspired by the Black Panther Party, which showed him the importance of local activism and introduced him to Karl Marx’s writings. Very interesting!
A Harvard Graduate
At just 17, West got a scholarship to Harvard University and graduated magna cum laude three years later with a degree in Middle Eastern languages and literature. He went on to Princeton for graduate school in philosophy, where he was influenced by Richard Rorty, a big name in American pragmatism. He even took a break from his dissertation to write a novel—though that never got published. After earning his PhD in 1980, he taught at some prestigious places, including Harvard and Princeton. He was named an Alphonse Fletcher, Jr., University Professor in 1998, and later returned to Princeton as a Class of 1943 University Professor.
Wide-Ranging Ideas
West is a guy with a lot of ideas! His work covers race, class, and justice, often with a twist of democratic socialism and a Christian moral compass. His book, Race Matters, came out right after the Los Angeles Riots in 1992. He tackled despair in the African American community and was pretty vocal about the failures of Black leaders. He’s also touched on Black-Jewish relations and the influence of Malcolm X.
A Fighter for Justice
Now, here’s the thing: Cornel West isn’t just a thinker; he’s a doer! He’s always been out there protesting and fighting for what he believes in, even when it got him in hot water with university administrations. At Harvard, the president, Lawrence Summers, pulled him aside for focusing too much on politics, and that led to a big debate about his scholarship and the school’s commitment to affirmative action. Eventually, he left Harvard for Princeton.
Taking the Political Plunge
In June 2023, West jumped into the race for the progressive People’s Party nomination for the 2024 presidential election. But soon after, he switched to the Green Party for better ballot access—smart move! Then, in October, he announced he’d run as an independent instead.
An Accomplished Author and Artist
Let’s talk about Melina Abdullah! She’s an incredible academic and civic leader, folks. A tenured professor at California State University, Los Angeles, she’s been making waves in her field. Abdullah has even chaired the department of Pan-African Studies. Impressive, right?
Community Engagement
But that’s not all! She’s also made her mark on the Los Angeles County Human Relations Commission, serving the community in a big way. Her work focuses on promoting understanding and harmony—something we all need!
Championing Black Lives Matter
Melina co-founded the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation chapter right in Los Angeles. That’s a big deal! She’s been a driving force for justice and equality, advocating for the rights of marginalized communities. And as the director of Black Lives Matter Grassroots, she’s leading the charge in grassroots activism.
A Powerful Voice for Change
With her impressive credentials and dedication to social justice, Melina Abdullah is a powerhouse in academia and activism. She’s not just talking the talk; she’s walking the walk!
VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE
Melina Abdullah
Abdullah is an academic and civic leader. She is a tenured professor at California State University, Los Angeles, where she previously chaired the department of Pan-African Studies. Additionally, she has served on the Los Angeles County Human Relations Commission. Abdullah co-founded the Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation chapter in Los Angeles and currently directs Black Lives Matter Grassroots.

Jill Stein: The Harvard-Educated Advocate for People, Planet, and Peace

Age74
PartyGreen Party
BornChicago, Illinois
A Doctor with a Mission
Meet Jill Stein, folks! This Harvard-educated doctor is not just any physician; she’s a groundbreaking environmental health advocate and an organizer who’s all about people, planet, and peace. Talk about a triple threat!
Fighting for Justice
Jill has been at the forefront of initiatives tackling environmental racism, injustice, and pollution. She’s on a mission to promote healthy communities and revitalize democracy—what a combo! With victories in campaign finance reform, racially-just redistricting, and cleaning up toxic threats like incinerators and coal plants, Jill is a true champion for change.
A Pioneer in Environmental Health
Stein has proposed an ambitious climate policy aiming for zero carbon emissions sooner than the progressive Democrats' “Green New Deal.” She has pledged to withdraw US support from Israel and Ukraine, and advocates for guaranteed free public education from pre-K through college. Additionally, Stein has promised to cancel all medical debt, double the number of Supreme Court justices, and impose 18-year term limits on them.
Standing Up to Toxic Threats
Jill helped shut down a toxic medical waste incinerator in Lawrence, MA, one of New England’s poorest communities. She was instrumental in rewriting fish advisories in Massachusetts to better protect vulnerable populations from mercury contamination. That’s leadership right there!
A Voice for Campaign Finance Reform
In 2003, Jill co-founded the Massachusetts Coalition for Healthy Communities, fighting for health care, local green economies, labor rights, and grassroots democracy. In 2008, she helped spearhead the “Secure Green Future” ballot initiative, moving subsidies from fossil fuels to renewable energy and creating green jobs. It was a smashing success, winning over 81% of the vote in 11 districts!
Recognized for Excellence
Jill has earned several accolades for her commitment to health and environmental protection, including Clean Water Action’s “Not in Anyone’s Backyard” Award and the “Children’s Health Hero” Award. She’s also appeared as an expert on major networks like the Today Show and Fox News, spreading her message far and wide!
Author and Advocate
As a co-author of two highly-praised reports—In Harm’s Way: Toxic Threats to Child Development and Environmental Threats to Healthy Aging—Jill connects the dots between human health, social justice, a healthy environment, and green economies. These reports are used globally in the fight for health and environmental justice.
An Illinois Native
Born in Chicago and raised in Highland Park, Illinois, Jill graduated magna cum laude from Harvard College in 1973 and earned her medical degree from Harvard Medical School in 1979. What an incredible journey!
A Voice for Campaign Finance Reform
Witnessing the power of lobbyists and their campaign contributions blocking vital protections, Jill became a fierce advocate for campaign finance reform. She worked hard to pass the Clean Election Law by voter referendum, which won by a 2-1 margin. Sadly, it was later repealed by the overwhelmingly Democratic Massachusetts Legislature. This event was pivotal for Jill, strengthening her ties with the Green Party.
VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE
To be determined
Stein has yet to announce a running mate.

Chase Oliver

Age39
PartyLibertarian Party
BornNashville, Tennessee
Early life and education
Chase Oliver, born on August 16, 1985, in Nashville, TN, is a male political candidate currently based in Atlanta, GA. He attended Georgia State University and has a notable political career, having run for various positions, including the President of the United States in 2024, the United States Senate for Georgia in 2022, and the United States House of Representatives for Georgia's District 5 in 2020. While there is no caucus information on file, he has served as the former Fundraising Director for Outright USA and was the Chair of the Libertarian Party of Atlanta from 2016 to 2017. Currently, there is no professional experience documented for him.
The People's Advocate
Chase Oliver is shaking things up! This Nashville-born, Georgia-based political dynamo isn’t just your typical candidate; he’s a trailblazer, smashing stereotypes and taking the fight straight to the political establishment. The self-proclaimed “armed and gay” Libertarian proudly represents the LGBTQ+ community as Georgia’s first openly gay candidate running for the Senate.
Grassroots Warrior
Chase's grassroots campaign is a story of tenacity and innovation. With just $7,790 raised, he captured 81,000 votes and forced a runoff, shaking the foundations of Georgia’s political landscape. His unique stance on issues from immigration reform to world peace resonates with voters fed up with the two-party system. He’s a vocal critic of the current dysfunction in government, arguing for a shift toward ranked-choice voting to bring fairness to elections.
Dedicated Worker
But Chase isn’t just a politician; he’s a dedicated worker. Balancing two jobs as a sales account executive and an HR representative, he understands the struggles of everyday Georgians. He’s a voice for those who feel unheard, and he’s using his platform to advocate for transparency and accountability in politics.
Champion of Change
With a heart for community and a passion for activism, Chase founded the Georgia State University’s gay-straight alliance during high school. He’s always been at the forefront of change, evolving from a Democrat inspired by Barack Obama to a Libertarian championing individual freedoms and fiscal responsibility.
Real Legislative Progress
Chase’s campaign isn’t just about him; it’s about the people he represents. He’s committed to working across party lines and fostering real legislative progress. Whether it's waving a rainbow Don’t Tread On Me flag at Pride parades or engaging with voters in his neighborhood, he’s dedicated to his mission. Chase Oliver isn’t just running for office; he’s running for a future where every voice matters.
VICE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE
Mike ter Maat
Mike ter Maat is a retired police officer and economist with experience in the George H.W. Bush administration. He sought the 2024 Libertarian presidential nomination but was eliminated during the party’s national convention voting process. Following this, he partnered with Chase Oliver on the ticket. Ter Maat previously ran for Congress in a 2022 special election as the Libertarian nominee for a South Florida seat but was unsuccessful.

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