2024 US Election Begins with Harris and Trump in Tight Race; Swing States and Nepali-American Votes Expected to Impact Outcome

The much-anticipated 2024 US Presidential Election kicks off today, with a fierce competition between Democratic candidate Vice President Kamala Harris and Republican contender former President Donald Trump. As Trump aims for a second term, Harris steps into the race with the endorsement of President Joe Biden, making a historic bid for the 47th US presidency.

Both candidates have heavily campaigned in pivotal Swing States, including Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Pennsylvania, the largest of these battlegrounds, has already seen a record-breaking $1.2 billion in media spending, reflecting its critical role in determining the election's outcome.

Key issues in this election mirror past concerns—immigration, gun rights, economic stability, women’s rights, and international conflicts—though inflation and price hikes on essentials like food and fuel have become particularly pressing for voters this year. The outcome of the election is expected to influence not only national policies but also global dynamics.

Of special interest in Pennsylvania, home to about 25,000 Nepali-origin voters, is the role of the Nepali-American community. Local leaders like Dr. Harry Bhandari and political activists Abhisek Thapa and Binita Puri have mobilized Nepali voters, holding awareness rallies and door-to-door campaigns. With Nepali-Americans supporting both Harris and Trump, community involvement is expected to impact the election outcome in this critical swing state.

Although 231 million Americans are eligible to vote, only 168 million are registered. As the candidates vie for a minimum of 270 electoral college votes to secure the presidency, Nepali-Americans and other immigrant communities could play a decisive role in shaping this historic election.