Americans cast their votes on Tuesday in a highly anticipated presidential election, with Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump locked in a tight race.
As the final votes are being counted, the world eagerly awaits the results that will have significant global implications.
Polling stations across the country have opened, and early reports indicate a high voter turnout.
More than 82 million Americans cast their ballots before election day, reflecting the intense interest and high stakes of this election.
Harris and Trump are vying for the presidency in a contest that remains too close to call, with recent polls showing the candidates neck-and-neck nationally and in key battleground states such as Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and Michigan.
Key issues on voters’ minds include the economy, healthcare, and climate change.
Professor Shahab Enam Khan from the Department of International Relations at Jahangirnagar University told Dhaka Tribune: “It appears to be a close contest, which is the nature of US elections. Currently, it’s difficult to predict a winner, though Republicans may have an edge given the economic crisis.
“Voters to focus on domestic concerns.”
Global implications
The outcome of the US election will have far-reaching implications for conflict-ridden regions around the world.
The election’s outcome will influence US relations with major global powers such as China and Russia.
Professor Shahab said: “If Trump wins, certain conflicts could decrease, as there are fundamental differences between Kamala Harris’s and Trump’s approaches to global politics.”
“However, it’s unlikely that Trump would initiate new conflicts,” he added.
Harris supports “Taiwan’s ability to defend itself” against China and opposes economic detachment from China.
Trump seeks strategic independence from China but desires a good relationship with Beijing.
The next president’s approach to these relationships will shape international trade, security, and diplomatic efforts.
In Ukraine, the ongoing war with Russia remains a critical issue. Ukraine continues to face significant challenges in defending its territory against Russian aggression.
The US election could influence the level of support Ukraine receives, as both candidates have differing views on foreign policy and military aid.
Harris supports the Biden administration’s stance on Ukraine, advocating for continued support, while Trump has criticized this policy and called for an end to the war without committing additional aid.
In the Middle East, tensions are high as Israel continues its military operations in Gaza and Lebanon.
The conflict has resulted in significant casualties and has drawn calls for a ceasefire from the international community.
The US election could impact the future of US involvement in the region, as the next president will need to navigate the complex dynamics of Middle Eastern politics and address the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Election day dynamics
As the election unfolds, both candidates have made their final pitches to voters, focusing on crucial battleground states.
The process of counting votes and declaring a winner is expected to be closely watched, with media organizations and election analysts providing real-time updates.
While the official certification of results will not occur until January, the outcome of the election could be known within hours or days after the polls close.
The election marks a critical moment in American democracy, with the potential to bring about significant change or reaffirm the current political trajectory.
