As the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election approaches, the political landscape is once again in flux. With the current President, Joe Biden, announcing that he will not seek re-election, the race is wide open, and both major parties are gearing up for a fiercely contested campaign.
Vice President Kamala Harris announced her candidacy for the Democratic nomination for president after it was announced Biden would step down earlier this summer, while Donald Trump – despite an attempted assassination attempt on his life – launched his bid to reclaim the White House for the Republicans.
The U.S. presidential election process involves voters casting ballots in each state, with the winner determined by the Electoral College. It’s a lengthy process that includes primaries, national conventions, and the general election, often spanning over a year. With so much ongoing in the news due to many rallies and debates, the US presidential election 2024 odds are constantly changing.
As we approach the final months of build-up to election day, let’s reflect on the last five U.S. presidents who have shaped the nation over the past decades. Each of these leaders left a unique mark on the country, influencing the direction of American policy and the global stage.
Joe Biden (2021–2025)
Joe Biden became the 46th President of the United States after the 2020 election. His presidency has been marked by efforts to address the COVID-19 pandemic,focused heavily on domestic issues, including infrastructure, climate change, and healthcare.
Despite significant achievements, Biden faced numerous challenges, including question marks over his age – turning 82 in November. He will step down from office at the end of his term, having guided America through large parts of the pandemic.
Donald Trump (2017–2021)
Trump’s presidency was one of the most polarising in modern U.S. history. A businessman and reality TV star before entering politics, Trump’s style won over voters from swing states. His tenure was marked by significant tax cuts, deregulation, and a focus on “America First” policies.
In the 2016 election, Donald Trump won key states like Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan, along with traditionally Republican strongholds such as Texas, Florida, and Ohio. He is currently the favourite to return to the White House for a second term with the political betting odds looking positive for the 78-year-old.
Barack Obama (2009–2017)
Barack Obama made history as the first African American president of the United States. Elected during the Great Recession of 2008, Obama’s presidency focused on economic recovery, healthcare reform, and addressing climate change. The Affordable Care Act, commonly known as “Obamacare,” was one of his signature achievements throughout successive terms in office.
He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009, and his administration focused on improving U.S. relations with foreign nations, but he struggled to pass stricter gun laws due to strong opposition from Congress and powerful lobbying by gun rights groups like the NRA.
George W. Bush (2001–2009)
Goerge Bush Jr, or George W. Bush, had a presidency that was defined by the events of September 11, 2001, and the subsequent War on Terror.
Bush led the country through a period of significant national security challenges, and in the 2004 election, many voters chose to re-elect him due to his strong stance on national security.
Bill Clinton (1993–2001)
Bill Clinton’s presidency is known for strong economic growth and stability, marked by one of the longest periods of economic expansion. His time in office also included the introduction of NAFTA, which aimed to boost trade with Canada and Mexico.
NAFTA was designed to reduce barriers and increase trade among the three countries, but the 42nd president was impeached due to the Monica Lewinsky scandal, which overshadowed much of his second term, though he was acquitted by the Senate.
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