The Start: Caucuses and Primaries

The journey begins with state-level caucuses and primaries, typically held 6-9 months before the main election. During this phase, political parties hold internal elections to choose delegates from each state who will represent them at the National Convention. Delegates play a key role in nominating the party’s presidential candidate, based on voters’ preferences in their states. Each state has unique processes and rules for these primaries and caucuses, which kickstart the race for the White House.

In 2024, the Republican Party’s primaries saw eight contenders, but former President Donald Trump secured the nomination with support from 2,268 delegates. On the Democratic side, President Joe Biden was renominated with backing from 3,896 delegates. Due to health issues, Vice President Kamala Harris did not enter the race for the presidential nomination.

National Convention and Finalizing Nominees

During each party’s National Convention, delegates officially nominate their presidential candidate. This major event is where a party formally endorses its nominee, providing momentum leading into the general election campaign.

The Electoral College System

Once the candidates are set, the general election enters the Electoral College phase. Unlike direct voting systems, the U.S. employs an Electoral College, where voters indirectly choose the President by selecting electors. These electors cast the final ballots that decide the presidency.

Congress, the U.S. legislative body, is divided into two houses: the Senate (upper house) and the House of Representatives (lower house). There are 538 electors, equivalent to the total seats in Congress, with each state assigned a specific number of electors based on its congressional representation. A candidate needs at least 270 electoral votes to win the presidency.

Structure of the House of Representatives and the Senate

The House of Representatives has 438 members, including three representatives for Washington D.C., and members serve two-year terms. Each state’s representation in the House is based on population size, with voters electing new representatives every two years. Meanwhile, the Senate comprises 100 members, with two senators from each state serving six-year terms. One-third of Senate seats are contested every two years, allowing for periodic elections.

In the 2024 presidential election, voters will not only vote for the President but will also elect 33 senators and all 438 members of the House of Representatives.

How Electors Are Chosen

Electors, selected state-by-state by the political parties, are often high-profile party members, such as current or former officials, members of Congress, or active party workers. Each presidential candidate’s team prepares a slate (panel) of electors, who represent that candidate in the Electoral College if their candidate wins the state’s popular vote.

Election Day Voting Process

On Election Day, voters cast ballots for their preferred presidential candidate. However, rather than voting directly for the candidate, they are choosing a slate of electors pledged to that candidate. The winning candidate in each state typically claims all of that state’s electors. These electors then convene on the Monday following the second Wednesday of December to cast their official votes for the President and Vice President.

While electors are usually bound to follow the state’s popular vote, in rare cases, “faithless electors” may cast votes for a candidate other than the one they pledged to support. However, most states have laws to prevent this from happening.

Wrapping Up

This complex process, from primaries to the Electoral College, ensures that the President represents the will of both the popular vote and the states. In January 2025, the next U.S. President will be inaugurated after navigating this multi-step, unique electoral process.

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Special Prayers for Trump’s Victory

In a show of solidarity, supporters of Donald Trump in India, particularly in Delhi, organized special prayers led by Maha Mandaleshwar Swami Vedamurtinanda Saraswati. The devotees conducted a yagya to invoke blessings for Trump’s success, citing his affinity for India and the Hindu community. Swami Vedamurtinanda praised Trump for condemning attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, suggesting that his leadership would ensure greater safety and prosperity for Hindus worldwide. He claimed that during Trump’s presidency from 2016 to 2021, there was significant global economic development and peace, contrasting it with the current state of unrest.

Swami Vedamurtinanda criticized Kamala Harris for not condemning violence against Hindus, further solidifying his support for Trump. He believes that Trump’s return to power would benefit India and Hindus significantly.

Kamala Harris’s Roots Celebrated in Tamil Nadu

On the flip side, Kamala Harris’s supporters in Tamil Nadu are equally fervent, conducting special prayers in her ancestral village of Tulasindapuram. Locals performed rituals at the Tulasindapuram temple, expressing their hopes for her success in the U.S. elections. Harris, whose ancestors hail from this town, has visited it twice, strengthening her ties to the community.

The villagers, regardless of their age, have come together to pray for her victory, demonstrating a deep sense of pride and connection to the U.S. Vice President. The atmosphere in Tulasindapuram, as well as in nearby cities like Madurai, is filled with banners and images of Harris, emphasizing the collective hope for her success.

Conclusion

The ongoing U.S. presidential election has not only captured the attention of Americans but has also fostered a vibrant display of support in India. Whether through special prayers for Trump’s victory or heartfelt rituals for Kamala Harris, this phenomenon reflects the intricate ties between Indian citizens and the political dynamics of the United States. As the election unfolds, it will be fascinating to see how these international connections influence perceptions and engagement back home.

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