What we know
- It’s election day in the United States with Donald Trump and Kamala Harris vying to become the next president – polls begin to open at 05:00 ET (10:00 GMT)
- Harris has advocated for abortion rights and pledged to lower food and housing costs for working families
- Trump has vowed to seal the border and has proposed tax cuts worth trillions
- Trump ended his campaign with a speech in Michigan- while Harris wrapped up in another swing state, Pennsylvania
- More than 82 million people voted before election day
- When will we know the winner, It could take days – or it could be soon after polls close
Trump and Harris Neck-and-Neck as Millions Head to Polls on Historic US Election Day
Election Day has arrived in the United States, where millions of voters are making a crucial decision between two sharply contrasting candidates, Republican Donald Trump and Democrat Kamala Harris, both vying for the presidency. Polls open at 5:00 AM ET (10:00 GMT) in many states, kicking off what could be one of the closest races in recent memory. With both campaigns focused on energizing voters in key battleground states, more than 82 million Americans have already voted early, suggesting historic voter engagement.
Harris Focuses on Economic Equity and Social Issues
Kamala Harris, who became the Democratic nominee after President Joe Biden opted out of a second term, has centered her campaign on economic reform and social justice. Her platform includes support for abortion rights, pledges to reduce food and housing costs for working families, and a commitment to expanding access to healthcare. Harris made her final appeal in Pennsylvania, a pivotal swing state, where she addressed young and first-time voters, underscoring their power in shaping the future of the nation.
Trump Campaigns on National Security and Economic Growth
Donald Trump, who has weathered two assassination attempts this year, closed out his campaign with a rally in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The former president promised to implement border security measures, reduce taxes, and support American businesses. “Are you better off now than you were four years ago?” he asked the crowd, resonating with voters concerned about economic security. His message has remained consistent, with a focus on tax cuts worth trillions, promising Americans relief from economic pressures through conservative fiscal policies.
Election Day Dynamics and What’s at Stake
This election is not only a referendum on competing policy visions but also a gauge of national sentiment, with each candidate holding a different vision for the country’s future. Trump has appealed to those focused on national security and economic growth, while Harris speaks to voters prioritizing social reform and economic equality. Voter turnout is expected to be high, especially in swing states like Pennsylvania and Michigan, which could tip the balance.
In Dixville Notch, New Hampshire, a traditionally early-reporting community, voters cast the first ballots just after midnight, reflecting the tight race with a tie: three votes for Harris and three for Trump. This symbolic start mirrors the broader national divide, with voters feeling strongly for both sides of the political spectrum.
When Will Results Be Announced?
Given the high number of early and mail-in ballots, the timing of results remains uncertain. Experts suggest it could take days to determine the winner if the race remains tight, though some results may be clear soon after polls close. Polling sites across the country have implemented additional measures to manage the unprecedented early voting and expected turnout, and the results are likely to be closely scrutinized by both campaigns.
PppAs the nation awaits the outcome, the world watches closely, with the results poised to shape not only the future of the United States but also its role on the global stage.