Politics Today
Election Day 2024
Thao Le
It's November's most significant day—and no, it's not Black Friday. The 2024 presidential election will take place on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Former President Donald Trump will run against Vice President Kamala Harris.
The winner will begin their four-year term in January 2025.
Presidential Qualifications
The Constitution requires presidential candidates to:
- Be U.S. citizens
- Be at least 35 years old
- Have lived in the U.S. for at least 14 years
Democrats vs. Republicans
The Democratic Party advocates for equality, government stability, civil rights, and freedom of speech. The Republican Party favors limited government intervention and traditional values, including support for industrial jobs.
Harris is running as the Democratic nominee, while Trump represents the Republican Party.
California Voter Requirements
To vote in California, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen
- Be a California resident
- Be at least 18 years old by Election Day
- Not be currently serving a state or federal prison term for a felony conviction
- Not be found mentally incompetent to vote by a court
Voting Methods
California offers multiple ways to vote:
Mail-in ballots: Registered voters receive mail ballots several weeks before the election. Completed ballots must be returned by mail or dropped off in person no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day.
In-person voting: First-time voters must provide identification. Acceptable forms include a driver's license number, California ID number or the last four digits of their Social Security number.
First-time voters should register online before Election Day.
Mayoral Candidates Discuss Future of SFUSD
GEORGE WASHINGTON HIGH SCHOOL - On Monday, Sept. 16, the San Francisco Parent Coalition hosted a mayoral forum inside Washington’s auditorium. The mayoral hopefuls showcased their plans for the future of public schools, and the key policy differences voters should remember on election day in less than 5 weeks. The candidates include current mayor London Breed, District Two Supervisor Ahsha Safari, District Three Supervisor Aaron Peskin, non-profit founder and Levi Strauss heir Daniel Lurie, and former Mayor Mark Farrell.