Washington DC: The US is voting today in a pivotal 2024 election, as Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump go head-to-head in a highly competitive race for the presidency. Harris, representing the Democratic Party, is endorsed by President Joe Biden, while Trump, the Republican candidate, is attempting to secure a second term amid legal challenges.

In the final campaign stretch, both candidates focused heavily on key battleground states, known as Swing States, including Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. Pennsylvania, the largest of these, has seen significant investment in media advertising, with over $1.2 billion spent to sway voters.

This election holds particular importance as the US faces economic challenges, inflation, and issues surrounding immigration, women’s rights, and gun laws. Despite post-COVID recovery efforts, economic strain due to rising prices of food, fuel, and services has impacted the middle class, making it a pressing concern among voters.

Swing States Poised to Decide Outcome

Historically, Swing States play a decisive role. Trump won five out of seven Swing States in 2016, while Biden took six in 2020. Early voting in Pennsylvania has already seen 1.6 million ballots cast, indicating a strong turnout that could sway the national result. Out of the total $10.53 billion spent in campaign advertisements nationwide, Pennsylvania accounts for over 10%, underscoring its significance.

Nepali-American Voters and Their Potential Impact

Around 25,000 Nepali-origin voters in Pennsylvania are expected to have an impact in this close race. Nepali-American political figures, such as Dr. Harry Bhandari, have mobilized volunteers to increase voter awareness. Bhandari, campaigning with a group from Maryland, emphasized the importance of engagement to inspire future generations.

Political activist Binita Puri highlighted efforts to increase voter turnout through rallies and door-to-door canvassing. Nepali-Americans, active in both the Harris and Trump camps, are voicing strong opinions on social media, reflecting the diverse perspectives within the community.

Path to Victory Through Electoral College

While 231 million US citizens are eligible to vote, only 168 million have registered. The candidate who secures at least 270 of the 538 electoral college votes will claim the presidency, regardless of the popular vote. With the stakes high, today’s vote will shape the direction of the United States on both domestic and global fronts.