Understanding the U.S. elections

Every four years in November, the United States holds one of the most important political events in the world: the election of the president. The president of the United States is not only the leader of the country but also wields significant influence on the global stage. They are responsible for making crucial decisions regarding the economy, national security, foreign policy, and much more. This is why U.S. elections attract so much attention both nationally and internationally.

In the U.S. there are two main political parties: the Republicans and the Democrats. Each party selects one candidate to represent them in the presidential race. These candidates participate in debates where they discuss their positions on key issues such as the economy, healthcare, and the role of government. These debates allow voters to compare the candidates and decide who they believe is best suited to lead the country.

In addition to the presidential candidates, the vice-presidential candidates also take part in their own debates. Journalists ask them questions, and their responses are fact-checked to ensure they are truthful.

One of the most interesting aspects of U.S. elections is the way votes are counted. Unlike in Italy, where the system is primarily based on direct voting, the U.S. uses a system called the “Electoral College.” When Americans vote, they are not directly voting for the president; instead, they are voting for a group of people called “electors,” who then vote for the president on behalf of their state.

Each state has a specific number of electors based on its population. For example, a large state like California has more electors than a smaller state like Vermont. To win the election, a candidate must secure a majority of electoral votes.

In contrast, Italy uses a system of proportional representation, where the number of seats a party wins in parliament depends on the percentage of votes it receives. This makes the U.S. system unique, and it is always interesting to compare how different countries conduct their elections.

This year, more than ever, celebrities and public figures have openly expressed their political preferences. They have used social media to encourage people to vote, which has helped increase voter registration. In some states, Americans can even vote online, making it easier for more people to participate. This contrasts with Italy, where voting is still done in person.

The two main candidates for the 2024 U.S. election are Donald Trump, who previously served as president from 2017 to 2021, and Kamala Harris, the current vice president. Their visions for the future are very different, and the outcome of this election will have a significant impact on the country.