The presidential race is the contest between candidates seeking to be the next President of the United States. It takes place every four years on Election Day, which is November 6 (November 8, 2024). Voters choose a presidential candidate and vice president by casting ballots in their state’s Electoral College. A majority of 270 electoral votes is needed to win.
The primary elections and caucuses are important for determining the final selection of a party’s candidate. After those events, a national convention will be held for each political party to select a final presidential nominee and a vice presidential nominee. During the conventions, state delegates will “endorse” their favorite candidates. The candidates who receive a majority of the delegates will be the final presidential and vice presidential nominees.
In addition to the popular vote, each state has a number of “swing” electoral votes that can be won by either party. These are based on historical voting patterns and can often be a major factor in the outcome of the presidential race. This system makes it particularly important for presidential candidates to spend much time and money in these swing states.
The presidential debates are a big part of the campaign. They are typically held in a large arena and broadcast live on television. Each candidate is allotted two minutes to answer each question. A moderator controls the debate and sets a timer with colors resembling traffic lights (green indicating 30 seconds, yellow indicating 15 seconds, and red indicating only 5 seconds remain).
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