As the 2020 United States presidential election approaches, it is imperative that American citizens exercise their right to vote. With the uncertainty surrounding a COVID-19 vaccine, a poor environmental state, and an unstable political climate, the election will undoubtedly carry great weight for our nation. The presidential candidates’ policies vary immensely in regards to the handling of the coronavirus, climate change, immigration, and beyond. With that being said, it is vital that citizens who are eligible to vote educate themselves on the policies and stances of the candidates.
Former Vice President Joe Biden, now running for president with Sen. Kamala Harris, heads the Democratic Party and poses strong competition for President Donald Trump. Taxes, abortion, climate change, racial inequality, and immigration mare only some of the topics that he outlines in his thorough plans. These policies, outlined on his website, starkly contrast those of Donald Trump. In regards to COVID-19, Biden plans to create a distinct public health response and create a large availability of health resources for all; making COVID tests easily accessible and developing a vaccine. Additionally, he aims to make emergency paid leave available for citizens affected by the virus. Biden is willing to spend whatever necessary to protect the public health.
As for his approach to climate change, he plans to create modern and sustainable infrastructure and ensure the use of clean energy. Biden aims to provide economic security for women, end violence against females, and empower women. Additionally, he plans to enact a billionaire tax cut and reward the workers of our nation.
While Biden’s plans contain ideas that strongly oppose Trump’s policies, there is another candidate that vehemently contradicts the current president’s ways. Howie Hawkins, running with Angela Walker, is a presidential candidate belonging to the Green Party of the United States. He intends to establish medicare for all, provide relief for those affected by COVID, investigate the police powers, and legalize marijuana. In addition, Hawkins is known for his campaigning of the Green New Deal in 2010 and for his strong advocacy for the use of clean energy.
Although Biden and Hawkins are similar in their opposition to Trump, they differ in their political stances. Biden is a more moderate candidate than Hawkins, as his policies fall closer to the middle of the political spectrum. While Biden does not support the Green New Deal, Hawkins is one of the original campaigners and supporters of the plan. Additionally, Biden outlines a plan for increasing taxes on individuals with an income of $400,000 or more. On the other hand, Hawkins outlines a plan for an Economic Bill of Rights in which he aims to create greater equality by guaranteeing every citizen equal rights to living-wage job, a habitable home, and comprehensive healthcare.
While their policies may seem similar at first glance, upon deeper reading, it is apparent that Hawkins’ policies fall further to the left than Biden’s. With this information, it is highly suggested that United States citizens carefully consider what they want for the future of America. The 2020 election will have national, and potentially global, impacts that extend far beyond the next four years.

Presidential Candidate Outlook: Joe Biden (D) & Howie Hawkins (G)

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