Assignment 2: Presidential Election Despite Commonly Held Be

Assignment 2 Presidential Electiondespite Commonly Held Beliefs About

Assignment 2: Presidential Election Despite commonly held beliefs about the popularity of presidents, presidents are elected by the Electoral College. This uniquely American institution consists of representatives of each state who cast the final ballots that actually elect the president. The total number of electors for each state is equal to the number of senators and representatives from that state in the U.S. Congress. The District of Columbia is accorded three electoral votes bringing the total number of votes to 538.

Thus, the magic number for winning the presidency is 270 votes. Research the most recent presidential election using the online library resources and the Internet and write a paper on the topic. Include the following in your paper: Identify the major issues of concern to voters and compare how each presidential candidate addressed those issues. Summarize information relevant to the issues and the election. Evaluate the validity of each candidate’s arguments. Cite your sources and prepare a title and reference page according to APA standards. Write a 2–3-page paper in Word format (excluding title and reference pages). Apply APA standards for writing style to your work. Use the following file naming convention.

Paper For Above instruction

Introduction

The recent United States presidential election exemplifies the complexities of American electoral processes and reflects the evolving concerns and priorities of the electorate. While public perception often emphasizes presidential popularity, the actual election hinges on the Electoral College, a constitutionally designated body of electors whose votes determine the outcome. Analyzing the major issues that influenced voters and how each candidate addressed these concerns provides insight into the democratic process. This paper examines the key issues of the most recent election, compares the candidates’ responses, assesses the validity of their arguments, and discusses the implications of electoral strategies on American democracy.

Major Issues of Concern to Voters

The 2020 U.S. presidential election was characterized by significant issues that shaped voter preferences and campaign strategies. The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented health and economic challenges, prompting debates about public health policies, economic relief, and government intervention. Economic recovery and employment remained central, especially given the economic downturn caused by the pandemic. Racial justice and social inequality gained prominence following a series of protests addressing systemic racism. Additionally, climate change, healthcare reform, and immigration policies were also key concerns among different voter demographics. These issues were intertwined with broader political ideologies, influencing voter alignment and turnout.

How Each Candidate Addressed the Issues

The Republican incumbent, President Donald Trump, emphasized economic recovery plans, deregulation, and a strong stance on border security. He highlighted achievements such as stock market gains and unemployment reduction pre-pandemic, framing economic resurgence as central to his leadership. On COVID-19, Trump promoted vaccine development and advocated for reopening the economy, often minimizing the pandemic's severity.

The Democratic challenger, Joe Biden, prioritized comprehensive public health measures, economic relief packages, and addressing racial injustice. His campaign advocated for mask mandates, increased testing, and vaccine distribution oversight. Biden proposed substantial investments in clean energy and climate change mitigation, emphasizing social equity and healthcare reform, including expanding the Affordable Care Act. Both candidates’ strategies reflected their ideological bases: Trump’s focus on economic indicators and patriotic rhetoric versus Biden’s emphasis on social justice and scientific guidance.

Summary of Relevant Election Information

The 2020 election saw record voter turnout, despite pandemic-related obstacles, demonstrating heightened political engagement. Mail-in voting surged, raising discussions about election security and integrity. Results revealed a polarized electorate, with Biden winning both the popular vote and securing 306 electoral votes, surpassing the 270-vote threshold necessary to win the presidency.

The Electoral College’s role was particularly scrutinized, with critics arguing that it undermines democratic representation, while supporters claimed it balances interests across diverse states. The election underscored the importance of electoral strategies, media influence, and voter mobilization efforts, especially in swing states that determined the outcome.

Evaluation of Candidates' Arguments

Assessing the validity of each candidate’s arguments involves examining data, policies, and expert analyses. Trump’s emphasis on economic metrics prior to the pandemic is supported by statistical data showing low unemployment and stock market gains. However, critics argue that his approach to the pandemic downplayed health risks and ignored disparities affecting vulnerable populations, undermining public health efforts.

Biden’s focus on healthcare and climate initiatives aligns with scientific consensus emphasizing the urgency of addressing public health and environmental challenges. His proposals for economic recovery, such as investments in infrastructure and green energy, are supported by economic models suggesting long-term benefits. Nevertheless, opponents contend that increased government intervention could threaten economic growth or lead to higher taxes, highlighting ideological debates about the role of government.

Overall, both candidates presented valid arguments grounded in their respective visions for America’s future. The validity of their claims can be contextualized within broader political, economic, and scientific frameworks, emphasizing the importance of critical analysis in evaluating electoral narratives.

Conclusion

The recent presidential election illustrates the profound impact of key issues such as public health, economic stability, racial justice, and climate change on voter decisions. The candidates’ contrasting approaches reflect differing ideological perspectives, with their arguments rooted in empirical data, policy proposals, and political ideologies. Understanding these dynamics enhances appreciation of the electoral process and its influence on shaping national policy. Ultimately, navigating the complexities of American democracy requires critical engagement with candidates’ narratives and the electoral mechanisms that uphold or challenge democratic principles.

References

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