We are now in the final phase of the 2024 election cycle, which has been full of unexpected events.
The Republican candidate, former President Donald Trump, has survived two assassination attempts, narrowly escaping one. He is also facing various legal challenges, with uncertain outcomes.
In the Democratic party, the sudden withdrawal of President Joe Biden from the race after a disappointing debate in June shocked the nation. Vice President Kamala Harris was then chosen as the nominee.
What lies ahead in the coming days?
Sept. 20: Early Voting Commences
Several states have already started printing and sending out ballots, well ahead of the Election Day on Nov. 5.
Virginia, Minnesota, and South Dakota initiated early voting on Sept. 20, followed by Mississippi on Sept. 23, with more states to follow in October.
Some states will automatically send out mail-in ballots, while in others, voters will need to request them. Some states require a reason for not voting in person.
Oct. 1: VP Candidate Debate
Following the first debate between Trump and Harris on Sept. 10, the vice presidential candidates will have their debate on Oct. 1.
Republican nominee Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio) will face Minnesota governor Tim Walz. The details of the debate are yet to be finalized, but CBS will host and broadcast the event.
The debate will be moderated by Norah O’Donnell and Margaret Brennan. The impact of the debate on the final outcome remains uncertain.
Nov. 5: Election Day
Election Day falls on Nov. 5 this year, as it always occurs on the Tuesday following the first Monday in November.
Nov. 26: Trump NY Trial Sentencing
Trump’s legal issues, including his New York trial sentencing scheduled for Nov. 26, will unfold in the aftermath of the presidential race.
Trump’s Georgia election interference case is on hold pending a decision on the prosecutor’s involvement.
All these legal matters will play out following the Nov. 5 elections.
Dec. 11: Electors Are Certified
States will submit certifications naming electors before the meeting to cast their votes on Dec. 17.
Dec. 17: Electors Vote
Electoral colleges will convene to vote on Dec. 17, following state laws.
Jan. 3: Congressional Year begins
The congressional year will commence on Jan. 3, 2025, with the swearing-in of new members.
Elected officials for each chamber, including the sergeant at arms and chaplain, are chosen. In the House, the speaker, who is second in line of succession for the presidency, will be elected. House members will also debate and vote on House Rules for the upcoming term.
On Jan. 6, 2025, Congress will officially count the electoral votes sent by each state. As the current vice president, Harris will preside over this process. If neither candidate has received the required 270 electoral votes, Congress steps in to decide the election. The House votes for the president, with each state getting one vote, so a majority of 26 wins. It is expected that the representatives would vote along party lines, but each state submits one vote “en bloc,” as a group.
On Jan. 20, 2025, the vice president will be sworn in, promising to “support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic.” Next, the president will take the oath of office, promising to faithfully execute the Office of President of the United States and preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States. Can you write this again?
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