In the impending contest that will determine the United States’ leader for the span from January 2025 to January 2029, the field of aspirants is coalescing. As the political stage takes form, it’s imperative to acquaint oneself with the notable figures vying for the highest office.
Joe Biden
The incumbent President, Mr. Biden, has officially embarked on his pursuit of a second term, proclaiming his candidacy via a video message on April 25. At the age of 80, Mr. Biden’s aspiration for re-election is met with nuanced considerations due to his advanced years and middling approval ratings. These factors initially fueled speculation of a step-down, allowing a fresher face to lead the Democratic Party. However, the 2022 midterms offered a resurgence of momentum, instilling renewed vigor into Mr. Biden’s campaign.
Donald Trump
Former President Trump, 77, filed candidacy paperwork on November 15 for the 2024 election. Notably, he remains a singular figure, being the only US president to have faced two separate impeachment trials. His political journey has been marked by an audacious attempt to retain power following the 2020 election, culminating in the ill-fated Capitol assault.
Amid ambitions to become the first ex-president since Grover Cleveland to regain the presidency, Mr. Trump encounters obstacles, including former aides and one governor he once endorsed.
Marianne Williamson
Esteemed as a self-help author and erstwhile spiritual confidante to Oprah Winfrey, Marianne Williamson embarks on the 2024 race, setting her sights on challenging President Biden for the Democratic nomination. As a septuagenarian at 71, Ms. Williamson asserts her commitment to mobilizing collective wisdom as a beacon of hope in these times.
Nikki Haley
Former South Carolina governor and erstwhile United Nations ambassador, Nikki Haley, enters the arena after initially pledging restraint should Mr. Trump continue his run. Aged 51, she positions herself as a fresh embodiment of leadership, striving to restore fiscal prudence, secure borders, and invigorate the nation’s purpose.
Mike Pence
Former Vice President Pence, 64, steps into the 2024 presidential race, defining his path as an alternative trajectory to that of his former superior, Mr. Trump. While shunning the exact approach of the ex-president, Mr. Pence stands firm in his traditional conservative convictions, advocating economic revival, a balanced budget, and safeguarding liberties.
Ron DeSantis
The current Governor of Florida, Ron DeSantis, at 44 years old, joins the fray, cultivating the momentum garnered through decisive pandemic-related measures and conservative stances. His candidacy launch, however, was marred by technical glitches during a Twitter Spaces event, casting a shadow over an otherwise promising entrant.
Tim Scott
Senator Tim Scott, aged 57, heralds his candidacy after years of being a pioneering Black Republican in Congress. Heralded as a consummate dealmaker and possessing a war chest of over $22 million, Mr. Scott endeavors to spotlight his traditional conservative principles in his bid for the nomination.
Vivek Ramaswamy
Aged 37, Vivek Ramaswamy, a wealthy biotechnology entrepreneur and vocal conservative, seeks to make his mark. His proclivity for denouncing stakeholder capitalism and challenging dominant ideologies propels his endeavor to shift the political discourse.
These contenders, along with others who enter the race, are poised to shape the trajectory of the nation as they vie for the highest office in 2024.
