2024: Looking back at yet another eventful year in US Politics

2024 has been an eventual year with the end approaching of the Biden administration, a General Election, re-election of former President Donald Trump, and continuous partisan clashes. With so many events happening on both the local and national level, dive into Global Politics’ roundup to recap on major events before entering into 2025.

January: Fiscal responsibility, State of the Union address, climate change, & Democrat and Republican Iowa Caucuses

Congress began the year negotiating adjustments to the debt ceiling agreement from 2023 to address government spending limits. Early debates shaped fiscal priorities throughout the year.

President Joe Biden delivered his annual State of the Union address, focusing on economic recovery, health care improvements, and foreign policy initiatives.

The White House paused all pending export permits for liquefied natural gas until the Department of Energy gathered further information on its impact on climate change.

The 2024 Iowa caucuses marked the start of the presidential primary season, setting the stage for the general election. These initial contests in Iowa played a pivotal role in shaping the trajectories of both parties’ nomination processes, influencing campaign strategies and voter engagement as the nation moved toward the 2024 presidential election.

• Republican Caucus: Held on Jan. 15, the Republican caucus reaffirmed former President Trump’s dominance within the party. Trump secured a decisive victory, achieving the largest margin of victory for a non-incumbent in Iowa’s caucus history. This substantial win solidified his status as the Republican frontrunner, propelling his campaign forward with significant momentum. 
• Democratic Caucus: The Democratic caucus process in Iowa underwent notable changes in 2024. In-person caucusing, focusing solely on party business, took place on Jan. 15. However, the selection of presidential candidates was conducted exclusively through mail-in ballots, with voting commencing on Jan. 12 and concluding on Super Tuesday, Mar. 5. This adjustment was a compromise between the Iowa Democratic Party and the Democratic National Committee, aiming to balance Iowa’s traditional early voting status with the national party’s revised primary calendar. 

February: Aid for conflict zones, healthcare reform, & global diplomacy with Kenya and Israel–Hamas

The US Senate passed a $95 billion emergency funding bill to support Ukraine, Israel – mainly the Israel Defense Forces, and set aside $10 billion for humanitarian aid.

The President introduced a comprehensive plan to lower prescription drug costs and expand healthcare coverage.

Biden hosted foreign leaders to strengthen international alliances and address global challenges. This included Kenya to build upon US–Africa relations which focuses on increasing economy, peace, and security within Kenya and externally. And, Biden heavily focused attention on ceasefire talks between Israel and Hamas to attempt to bring stability to Palestinians in Gaza.

March: Select states begin primary elections & decarbonizing energy

The presidential primary season began with early contests in Iowa and New Hampshire, setting the stage for intense competition among candidates. For Republicans, the Iowa caucus solidified Trump’s status as the frontrunner, boosting his momentum heading into later primaries. On the Democratic side, the unique mail-in voting process in Iowa marked a shift in how states approach primary elections under revised party rules. These early elections shaped the race by narrowing the field, rallying party bases, and focusing media attention on key issues, all while candidates scrambled to secure delegates for their party’s nomination.

Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda partnered with the Department of Energy announced a $6 billion plan that included 33 projects across 20 states to “decarbonize energy-intensive industries, reduce industrial greenhouse gas emissions, support good-paying union jobs, revitalize industrial communities, and strengthen the nation’s manufacturing competitiveness.” Backed by funding from the President’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and Inflation Reduction Act, these projects aim to create and sustain tens of thousands of high-quality jobs while advancing the commercial-scale demonstration of innovative industrial decarbonization technologies essential to achieving the Biden-Harris administration’s climate and domestic manufacturing objectives.

April: New York v. Donald Trump trial begins, gun violence, & student debt relief proposal 

Before the conviction in the New York v. Donald Trump trial, significant legal proceedings unfolded, highlighting allegations of falsifying business records and financial misconduct. Throughout the trial, Trump’s legal team sought to challenge the credibility of witnesses and evidence while framing the proceedings as an attack on his political career. The high-profile nature of the trial drew extensive media coverage, further intensifying public and political discourse.

• In the criminal case related to hush money payments, prosecutors argued that Trump orchestrated a scheme to cover up damaging information during the 2016 presidential campaign by falsifying business records to conceal the true nature of the payments. The trial featured testimony from key witnesses, including former Trump attorney Michael Cohen, who detailed his role in facilitating the payments. Trump’s defense claimed the charges were politically motivated and lacked legal merit.
• In the civil fraud case brought by New York Attorney General Letitia James, the state alleged that Trump, his children, and the Trump Organization inflated asset values to secure favorable loans and deflated them to reduce tax obligations. Evidence presented included financial documents and testimony from financial experts. The court scrutinized decades of business practices, with the state arguing that the fraudulent activities were systematic and intentional.

In response to rising gun violence, Biden announced executive actions to enhance background checks and regulate ghost guns. This was known as closing the “gun-show loophole” which has typically allowed the sale of guns without background checks outside of brick-and-mortar stores – this would no longer be allowed and once signed took 30 days to take effect. This ruling was part of a 2022 provision of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which states, “requires that anyone who sells guns for profit to have a license and that buyers be subject to a background check, including at firearms shows and flea markets.”

Biden unveiled a new widespread student debt forgiveness plan that was anticipated to assist 30 million borrowers “erase some or all of their college loans.” The Supreme Court blocked Biden’s previous attempt in 2023, so this plan differentiates itself by relying on a different law to provide debt relief. According to CBS, “The new plan turns to an older law, the Higher Education Act, which allows the Secretary of Education to ‘compromise, waive or release’ federal student loans. It’s through this mechanism that the Biden administration is tackling its new debt relief program.”

May: Trump found guilty in court of 34 felonies & widespread protests amongst college campuses

Trump faced legal challenges in New York, resulting in both criminal and civil convictions. These legal proceedings have significantly impacted Trump’s business operations and political aspirations, though he ultimately secured the presidency for a second term, the legal challenges underscores a unique set of challenges he will face as a leader during but also post-presidency.

• Criminal Trial: Trump was convicted on 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments made during the 2016 presidential campaign. The jury found that these payments were part of a scheme to conceal damaging information from voters. This conviction marked the first time a former U.S. president was found guilty of felony crimes. 
• Civil Fraud Case: In Feb., a New York State Supreme Court judge ruled in favor of Attorney General Letitia James in a civil fraud case against Trump, his associates, and the Trump Organization. The court ordered the defendants to pay over $450 million, including $363.8 million in disgorgement and prejudgment interest, for fraudulent activities. 

Several universities testified before Congress about their institutional response to campus protests with regard to the Israel-Gaza war. University presidents included Northwestern University, University of California–Los Angeles, and Rutgers University – though more than 130 colleges and 3,000 students across the country have participated in campus wide protests. The committee hearing was organized to question university leadership “on what concessions were made to get students to reduce or disband protest camps,” along with seeking answers to how antisemitism was addressed. Two previous hearings resulted in two university heads stepping down. The House was attempting to be intentful in protecting the first amendment right to speech and assembly.

June: Primary elections concluded, gun crisis, & pollution clean-up

The primary elections for both major political parties were nearing completion, with most states having held their contests. On the Republican side, Trump continued to dominate, securing a commanding lead in delegates, despite challenges from other candidates. In the Democratic race, Biden, facing limited competition, solidified his position as the party’s nominee. The primaries and caucuses throughout the spring of 2024 helped to shape the final nominations for both parties, setting the stage for the general election campaigns that would intensify through the summer. 

Following high-profile mass shootings earlier in the year, the US Surgeon General declared firearm violence a public health crisis. According to the advisory, “Research shows that gun-related suicides—which encompass the majority of all firearm-related deaths—has increased by 45% for people aged 15-24 and 68% for children aged 10-14 from 2012 to 2022.” This led to an increased call for action for the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, showing that progress can be made to protect Americans whilst maintaining the second amendment. 

The White House partnered with the Department of the Interior and announced $725 million to Biden’s “Investing in America” agenda to clean up legacy pollution. The programming is available to 22 states, and is the third allotment of a $11.3 billion plan. According to the Department, “Communities once powered by the coal industry are now polluted by abandoned mine lands, which leach toxic discharge into lands and waterways, cause land subsidence and structural issues, and fuel underground mine fires. This funding will ensure that coal communities are not left behind, but rather revitalized by the jobs created for displaced coal workers, economic opportunity, and clean air and water provided by these cleanup projects.”

July: First Trump assassination attempt, Republican National Convention in Milwaukee solidifying Trump as party’s candidate & JD Vance as running mate, Biden steps down from re-election campaign, & Benjamin Netanyahu’s controversial visit to Congress

On July 13, at a campaign rally near Butler, Pennsylvania, a man fired multiple shots toward the stage where Trump was speaking. One bullet grazed Trump’s right ear, and the assailant, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was shot and killed by U.S. Secret Service agents. The attack resulted in the death of one attendee and critical injuries to two others.

At the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, former President Trump was officially nominated as the party’s presidential candidate, solidifying his position for the upcoming election. In a strategic move to appeal to working-class voters, Trump selected Senator JD Vance of Ohio as his vice-presidential running mate. Vance, known for his advocacy on economic issues and his personal narrative of overcoming adversity, delivered a compelling acceptance speech, emphasizing his commitment to revitalizing American manufacturing and supporting the working class. This pairing aimed to strengthen the Republican ticket by combining Trump’s established political presence with Vance’s populist appeal.

Biden withdrew from the presidential race, citing concerns that an intra party battle over his candidacy would be a “real distraction” for Democrats. His decision followed mounting pressure from within the Democratic Party, particularly after a poorly received debate performance against Trump, which raised concerns about his age and mental fitness. Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as his successor. Biden’s withdrawal marked a significant shift in the 2024 election landscape, leading to a reevaluation of campaign strategies and voter engagement efforts within the Democratic Party.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of the U.S. Congress, delivering a speech that sparked significant controversy. During his address, Netanyahu warned that “America is next” if the U.S. fails to support Israel against Iran’s “axis of terror” in the Middle East. This visit underscored the complex and often contentious nature of US–Israel relations, highlighting the challenges in balancing support for an ally with addressing humanitarian concerns in the region. The speech was met with mixed reactions:

• Boycotts and Protests: A notable number of Democratic lawmakers chose to boycott the speech, reflecting internal party divisions over U.S. foreign policy in the Middle East. Additionally, thousands of pro-Palestinian protesters gathered in Washington, DC, leading to heightened security measures around the Capitol.
• Support and Criticism: While many Republicans and some Democrats expressed support for Netanyahu’s stance, others criticized his rhetoric and the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which had resulted in significant Palestinian casualties. 

August: Democratic National Convention in Chicago placing Vice President Kamala Harris as the party’s new candidate & Tim Walz running mate

The Democratic National Convention in Chicago marked a pivotal moment in the party’s history. Vice President Harris was officially nominated as the Democratic candidate for President, becoming the first Black and Indian woman to lead a major US political party. In a strategic move to appeal to working-class voters, Harris selected Minnesota Governor Tim Walz as her vice-presidential running mate. Walz, a former high school teacher and football coach, emphasized his commitment to education and public service during his acceptance speech. The convention featured speeches from prominent Democrats, including former President Bill Clinton and House Minority Leader Nancy Pelosi, who endorsed the Harris-Walz ticket. The event underscored the party’s dedication to inclusivity and progressivism, setting the stage for the general election campaign.

September: Harris v. Trump presidential debate, second Trump assassination attempt, federal budget, & United Nations

On Sept. 10, Harris and Trump engaged in their first presidential debate at the National Constitution Center in Philadelphia. The 90-minute event, moderated by ABC News, covered key topics including abortion, the economy, foreign policy, and immigration. Key highlights include:

• Abortion Rights: Harris emphasized the importance of protecting reproductive rights, pledging to sign a bill reinstating the protections of Roe v. Wade. In contrast, Trump celebrated the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, advocating for states’ rights to determine abortion laws. 
• Election Integrity: Harris criticized Trump for not accepting the results of the 2020 election, highlighting the importance of upholding democratic processes. Trump, however, maintained his stance on election integrity, suggesting that the 2020 election was fraudulent. 
• Foreign Policy: Harris supported a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine, advocating for peaceful coexistence. Trump, on the other hand, predicted Israel’s downfall under Harris’s presidency, reflecting his more unilateral approach to foreign relations. 
• Immigration and National Security: Trump criticized the current administration’s handling of immigration and national security, while Harris labeled him unfit based on advice from past security advisors. 

The debate was marked by Harris’s confident demeanor, effectively putting Trump on the defensive and presenting him as a figure of the past. Post-debate polls indicated a strong performance by Harris, with many viewers perceiving her as the winner. However, the impact of the debate on the overall election outcome remains uncertain, as voters continue to evaluate the candidates’ positions and campaign strategies.

On Sept. 15 at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, Florida, a Secret Service agent noticed a rifle barrel protruding from the bushes. The agent fired in that direction, causing the suspect, 58-year-old Ryan Wesley Routh, to flee, leaving behind an SKS-style rifle. Routh was apprehended shortly after while driving on Interstate 95. He faces charges including attempted assassination of a major presidential candidate and is being held without bail.

Federal Budget for FY 2025: Congress passed a continuing resolution to fund the government and avoid a shutdown, with final budget approval delayed to October. Key debates focused on defense spending and social welfare programs.

Biden addressed the United Nations General Assembly, focusing on climate change, global health, and human rights. Biden reiterated competition with China, highlighted US aid to Ukraine, and urged focus on collaboration to address global challenges. 

October: Vance v. Walz vice presidential debate

On Oct. 1 Vance and Walz participated in the vice-presidential debate at the CBS Broadcast Center in New York City. The debate, moderated by CBS News, focused on key issues such as climate change, immigration, and economic policies. Key highlights included:

• Climate Change: Vance questioned the role of carbon emissions in climate change, suggesting that the science is not settled. In contrast, Walz emphasized the importance of investing in clean energy to address environmental challenges. 
• Immigration: Vance deflected questions about Trump’s mass deportation plans, while Walz advocated for comprehensive immigration reform that includes a pathway to citizenship. 
• Economic Policies: Vance criticized expert opinions on Trump’s economic proposals, suggesting that they would lead to job losses. Walz supported Harris’s policies, arguing that they would create jobs and strengthen the economy. 

The debate was characterized by a civil and policy-focused exchange, with both candidates presenting their respective party’s positions. Post-debate analysis indicated a close contest, with some polls showing Vance slightly ahead, while others considered the debate a tie. 

November: Re-election of President Donald Trump, Republicans sweep the national elections taking majority in the House, Senate, and state governorships

At the conclusion of the 2024 General Election, Trump was re-elected for a second term, marking a significant political moment. Alongside his victory, the Republican Party achieved a sweeping success across the nation. Republicans regained control of the House of Representatives, securing a majority that would shape the legislative agenda for the next four years. In addition, the GOP took control of the Senate, consolidating their power in both chambers of Congress. The party also made significant gains in state elections, winning numerous governorships and further expanding their influence at the state level. This Republican triumph signified a strong political shift, positioning the party to advance its policies on a national and local scale.

Several factors contributed to the analysis and predictions surrounding Vice President Kamala Harris’s defeat. While Biden had a strong base of support, Harris’s performance during the campaign drew criticism and raised concerns among some voters and political analysts.

1. Low Approval Ratings and Perception of Inexperience: Harris had struggled with low approval ratings for much of her tenure as Vice President. Her handling of high-profile issues, such as immigration and the border crisis, was often criticized. Some voters perceived her as inexperienced or ineffective, leading to questions about her readiness to step into the presidency should she need to assume that role.
2. Challenges with Voter Outreach: Harris’s ability to connect with key voter groups, especially in swing states, was also a point of concern. Although she was popular among certain demographics, her broader appeal was more limited compared to other potential Democratic candidates. Her campaign’s messaging often lacked clarity, which led to a sense of disconnection among more moderate or independent voters.
3. Competition from the Republican Party: The Republican Party, particularly under Trump’s leadership, rallied a significant base, capitalizing on economic frustrations, rising crime rates, and dissatisfaction with progressive policies. Trump’s populist appeal and aggressive campaigning made him a formidable opponent. Additionally, his alignment with the desires of many conservative and working-class Americans played a large role in uniting the Republican base.

December: Hunter Biden is pardoned along with many others, Trump’s cabinet picks revealed, Passing of President Jimmy Carter, Angola, & defense bill disagreements

Biden issued a pardon for his son, Hunter Biden, in relation to ongoing legal issues surrounding his business dealings and tax violations. The pardon came after H. Biden pleaded guilty to misdemeanor charges for failing to pay taxes in a timely manner. The decision sparked controversy, with critics accusing the Bidens of political favoritism, while supporters argued that it was a necessary step for justice and closure. The pardon was seen as part of the broader political dynamics during a tense election year, further fueling debates on the fairness of legal proceedings involving high-profile political figures.

Biden proceeded to announce a ground-breaking 1,500 commutations and 39 pardons making it the “largest single-day act of clemency in US history.” 

Trump’s cabinet picks for his anticipated second term have drawn significant attention, especially with the addition of a new department: the Department of Government Efficiency. These picks reflect Trump’s approach to governance: a blend of returning trusted allies from his first term and introducing bold new initiatives, such as the Department of Government Efficiency, which seeks to streamline government operations and reduce waste. The selections emphasize a strong, nationalistic, pro-business agenda, with a focus on reducing regulation, bolstering security, and reshaping federal programs to be more efficient. Here’s a breakdown of his key cabinet selections and their roles, though some are still changing:

• Secretary of State: Marco Rubio
• Secretary of the Treasury: Scott Bessent
• Secretary of Defense: Michael Duffey
• Secretary of Homeland Security: Kristi Noem
• Secretary of Agriculture: Brooke Rollins 
• Secretary of Education: Linda McMahon
• Secretary of Labor: Lori Chavez-DeRemer
• Department of Efficiency: Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy
• Secretary of Health and Human Services: Robert F. Kennedy

Former President Jimmy Carter passed away on Dec. 29 at the age of 100, marking the end of an era for one of the most beloved and longest-living U.S. presidents. Carter, who served as the 39th President from 1977 to 1981, was known for his advocacy of human rights, efforts to combat disease and poverty, and his post-presidency humanitarian work. After his presidency, Carter focused on global peace, public health, and social justice through the Carter Center, which he co-founded. His passing came after a long battle with health issues, including a recent diagnosis of terminal brain cancer. Carter’s legacy includes the Camp David Accords, his work with Habitat for Humanity, and his Nobel Peace Prize in 2002 for his tireless humanitarian efforts. His death was met with tributes from around the world, honoring his commitment to global peace, equality, and his lasting influence on U.S. and world affairs.

Biden made his first presidential visit to Angola, meeting with President João Lourenço to discuss foreign investment and defense cooperation. 

National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA): The $895 billion NDAA included a 14.5% pay raise for junior enlisted troops and restrictions on certain types of transgender healthcare coverage under Tricare. The bill received bipartisan support but faced criticism over controversial provisions. 

Looking ahead to 2025 

2024 has been a year of significant political developments, marked by twists, turns, and debates across a range of issues. The United States now approaches an unprecedented period of governance as the new presidential administration prepares to take office on Jan. 20, 2025, bringing the 2024 political season to a close.