Donald Trump is an American businessman, television personality, and politician who started his career by taking over his family’s real estate business. He expanded it into a brand that includes hotels, golf courses, and entertainment. In 2016, he ran for president as a Republican, portraying himself as an outsider focused on issues like immigration, trade, and economic nationalism. His campaign was controversial, with statements about various marginalized groups. After winning the 2016 election, Trump’s presidency included major policy changes like tax cuts and the appointment of three Supreme Court justices, but he also faced significant challenges, including being impeached twice—once over Ukraine and again for inciting the January 6 Capitol riot. Trump is the first former U.S. President to be convicted on felony charges, making his legal situation unprecedented and sparking widespread political and legal discussions.

Kamala Harris is an American politician and attorney who made history as the first female vice president, as well as the first Black and South Asian vice president of the United States. Born in Oakland, California, she began her career as a prosecutor and served as California’s Attorney General from 2011 to 2017, where she was recognized for her progressive policies on criminal justice and consumer protection. In 2017, she was elected to the U.S. Senate, known for her strong questioning on healthcare, immigration, and civil rights. In 2020, she ran as Joe Biden’s vice presidential candidate and won the election. As Vice President, Harris has worked on significant initiatives, including the American Rescue Plan, which provided economic relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. She has addressed the root causes of migration from Central America and focused on women’s rights, especially in reproductive health and economic equity. Harris has also advocated for voting rights and supports the Biden administration’s climate agenda, emphasizing environmental justice. Additionally, she represents the U.S. in international forums and engages with communities across the country to promote economic recovery and social justice.

Cornel West (write in option only) is an American philosopher, political activist, and public intellectual known for his focus on race, class, and social justice. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, he is an influential figure in both academia and the progressive movement. West earned his undergraduate degree from Harvard and a Ph.D. from Princeton, teaching at several top universities, including Harvard, Yale, and Princeton, and is currently a professor at Union Theological Seminary. He is a strong advocate for social justice, civil rights, and democratic socialism, participating in movements that address racial inequality, poverty, and anti-war efforts. His notable works, such as “Race Matters” and “Democracy Matters,” critique society and promote equity. In 2024, West announced his candidacy for president as a member of the Green Party, emphasizing his progressive values. His platform includes economic justice, universal healthcare, climate change action, and fighting systemic racism. West aims to amplify the voices of marginalized communities and is committed to grassroots activism for a more inclusive society.

Jill Stein (write in option only) is an American physician, activist, and politician running for president with the Green Party. Born in Chicago and raised in Highland Park, she studied psychology at Harvard and earned her medical degree from the University of Massachusetts Medical School. Before entering politics, she worked as a doctor and advocated for environmental and public health issues. In 2024, Stein announced her candidacy for president, having previously run in 2012 and 2016. Her campaign aims to promote a progressive agenda focused on creating a sustainable and equitable future, tackling climate change, economic inequality, and social injustice. Stein’s candidacy reflects her dedication to environmental and social issues and seeks to mobilize grassroots support to challenge mainstream political ideas.