Vice President Kamala Harris has received former President Biden’s endorsement as the Democratic nominee.  Following President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the US presidential re-election race, Harris is set to be the Democratic nominee.

Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump has been selected as the Republican nominee after securing a series of victories in primaries and caucuses. 

When is the upcoming US presidential election? 

The United States holds a presidential election every four years on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November. The upcoming election is scheduled for November 5, 2024. 

What is the typical US election cycle? 

The US presidential election process follows a typical cycle: 

• Spring of the year before an election 

Candidates must register with the Federal Election Commission in order to officially enter the presidential race. Although there is no specific federal deadline for registration, candidates must meet certain additional requirements. 

• Spring of the year before an election  

Candidates announce their decision to participate in the election. 

• Summer of the year before an election through spring of the election year  

Primary and caucus debates take place throughout the spring of the election year. 

• January to June of the election year  

In this period, presidential primaries and caucuses are conducted by states and political parties. 

• July to early September  

The nomination of conventions is organized by parties to select their presidential candidates. The vice president running mate is typically announced by the presidential candidate right before or during the convention. 

• September and October  

In this period, candidates participate and engage in presidential debates. 

• Early November 

Election Day falls on the first Tuesday following the first Monday of November.  

• December  

The Electoral College is the group of presidential electors who cast their votes for the president and vice president.  

• Early January of the next calendar year  

In early January, the Congress counts the electoral votes. 

• January 20  

On January 20, the Presidential Inauguration Day occurs. 

When do the US elections processes begin? 

The process of the US election begins several months before the voting day through primaries and caucuses. Both aim to choose delegates to represent their states at the national conventions of the parties. 

What are primaries? 

Primaries are held in most US states that are administered by the state governments. In closed primaries, only registered party voters can vote, whereas in open premises anyone can vote. 

What are Caucuses? 

Caucuses are organized by political parties and are also held in a handful of states. Voters are required to physically attend designated meetings wherein they divide into groups to support certain candidates and convince others to join their groups. 

How do candidates secure presidential nominations? 

The way delegates are assigned varies depending on the party and state. These ultimately vote at the national conventions of their respective parties. The candidates who are garnered with the support of the majority of delegates win and secure the presidential nominations.