The US of A decides:
Whether you are American or not, November will definitely be of interest to you. The world’s leading economy is poised to choose its new leader, one bound to influence international relations over at least the next 4 years. Who are the candidates? What do they stand for?
The Candidates:
The Democrats and Republicans(GOP), have over the most part of the year been battling it out within the parties, to choose their presidential candidate nominees.
From an initially crowded pool, the GOP now have their presumptive candidate in business mogul Donald Trump, while former 1st lady, senator and Secretary of state, Hillary Clinton looks set to lead the Democrats campaign.
Both candidates are expected to be formally installed as their Parties‘ torch-bearers during the respective National Conventions (Democratic National Convention July 25 – 28 in Philadelphia, and the Republican National Convention July 18 – 21 in Cleveland).
The Issues: What do they stand for?
Donald Trump :
- Jobs: Mr. Trump believes China to be the USA’s major competition when it comes to trade. He believes China’s current trade deal within the World Trade Organization allows for Businesses to thrive in China, as opposed to in the USA, which leads to companies moving to the South East Asian country, meaning loss of jobs for Americans. Donald intends to negotiate new terms with China, opening up its market more, which would allow companies to operate within the States, while maintaining access to benefits available in China. In this way, jobs should theoretically return to the USA, along with the companies.
- Abortion: Initially Mr. Trump was against abortion in its totality. He has however, in recent times ‚evolved‘ his views. Conceptions through Incest, rape or where the mother’s life is in danger, now feature as some of the exceptions he would consider for allowing abortion.
- Health-care: Donald Trump is a staunch critic of Obamacare. He believes the current health plan birthed by President Obama, has left the US economy in uncertainty, with unimaginable expenses coming in the future. He has offered an alternative Health-care reform, which features the repeal of Obamacare, and the introduction of free-trade rules in health insurance. Cheaper options across state lines should for example, not be withheld from citizens, simply based on State of residency.
- Immigration: The US currently has millions of people, living illegally within its borders. He argues these to be responsible for a majority of crimes within the borders, and job losses. Donald has further suggested the building of a wall between his country and Mexico, in order to limit illegal entry.
Hillary Clinton:
- Education: Ms Clinton is a believer in the provision of quality education. She intends to provide education for every child in every zip code, and offering mentorship for teachers. Both teachers and students should receive the best in care. An improvement in education standards should in the long run ensure, that the American economy flourishes, and the future of its citizens remains bright.
- Lgbt Rights and equality : In keeping with the current administration’s reforms, Sen. Clinton intends to maintain the gains made in laws giving gay and lesbian couple equal rights to other couples. Children parents and elders of lgbt couples should not experience any discrimination, with federal equality being on offer.
- Women’s rights: For centuries, women have been ostracized and held back from achieving their fullest potentials. Under Ms. Clinton, Women’s rights should get a boost. Equal pay for equal work is a talking point, with paid family leave also getting a consideration.
- Immigration: The Clinton Immigration reform entails the provision of a pathway for illegal immigrants to become American citizens. She wants to offer a chance, for those already in the US to acquire citizenship, while putting an end to things such as family deportation camps. Ms Clinton and President Obama, both believe that families shouldn’t be torn apart as a result of deportation laws. Reforms are urgently needed in the deportation department.
Controversies :
Like many other politicians, both candidates come with their fair share of controversy.
Ms Clinton recently was accused of sharing classified information in her emails, which may or may not have led to endangerment of American citizens. Accusations have also been made about former President Clinton’s foundation, profiting from Hillary Clinton’s tenure as Secretary of State. To many, the former 1st lady seems to be too out of touch with the general public.
Mr Trump on the other hand, has been accused of using hate and division to garner votes. Several accusations have been made that he condones racism, including his suggestions that Muslims should be banned from entering the USA. Other controversies such as the Trump University and praise for dictators such as Saddam Hussein, Kim Jong-un and Gaddafi, also don’t go down too well with some conservatives. The GOP front runner has also been accused of flip-flopping on too many issues. It is difficult to tell what exactly his standpoint on issues is.
Whoever wins the general elections in November, she/he will definitely have a big task at hand. First of all, the nation is divided at the moment, with racial tensions and hate resurfacing. Second of all, international affairs aren’t as rosy as they once might have been. Economies uncertain following Brexit and terror threats on the rise, mean that the next American president will have a lot on his/her plate.
From now on, you can watch the Republican National Convention (July 18 – 21) as well as the Democratic National Convention (July 25 – 28) live at whatislive.com.
Source:
Image 1: http://media.irishcentral.com/images/MI+American+USA+Election+2015+ballot+box+vote+Presidential+iStock.jpg
Image 2: http://cdn.images.express.co.uk/img/dynamic/78/590x/US-elections-2016-638871.jpg
(NC/TA)