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Political Slant: Moderate/Center-Left

Focus: Balanced coverage with a slight left-lean. Known for breaking news and in-depth political analysis.

Key Demographics: Generation X, Baby Boomers, Silent Generation

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A Year of Challenges and Change: Recapping 2023 and the Key Issues Heading into 2024

Q4 2023

 

 

As we turn the page on 2023, Americans are reflecting on a year filled with political gridlock, economic uncertainty, and global turbulence. From inflation's stubborn hold on the economy to deepening political divisions, this past year has forced the country to confront hard realities. But as we head into 2024, many of these same issues will continue to dominate the national conversation—and, crucially, the presidential election.

Here’s a look back at the key stories from 2023 and the major questions we face in the year ahead.

 

The Economy: Inflation, Jobs, and Unease

For many Americans, 2023 was a year where financial anxiety dominated their lives. Inflation, which first spiked in 2022, continued to put pressure on households as the cost of food, gas, and housing remained high. While the Federal Reserve’s interest rate hikes helped slow inflation somewhat, the ripple effects—rising mortgage rates and tightening credit markets—left many families feeling squeezed.

Despite this, the job market stayed surprisingly strong. Sectors like technology, healthcare, and renewable energy continued to hire, while unemployment remained low. But as wages struggled to keep pace with inflation, many Americans—particularly middle- and lower-income workers—found themselves falling behind. The growing wealth gap has emerged as a critical issue heading into 2024.

The big question for 2024: Will inflation finally ease, allowing Americans to feel relief in their wallets, or will we see more economic turbulence? And how will the economy shape the presidential race, as candidates position themselves as the solution to voters’ financial concerns?

 

Political Gridlock and the Fight for Compromise

Washington, D.C., once again became the epicenter of political stalemate. Congressional gridlock in 2023 saw major legislation on healthcare, climate change, and voting rights stall as partisanship deepened. With slim majorities in both chambers, Democrats struggled to push through key elements of President Joe Biden’s agenda, while Republicans used every tool at their disposal to block new initiatives.

Yet, the dysfunction went beyond policy paralysis—it further eroded public trust in government. Americans across the political spectrum expressed frustration with what they see as politicians more interested in fighting each other than solving the problems facing the country.

Looking to 2024, voters will demand more than just promises. Can either party offer real solutions to break the deadlock, or will the next election deepen the divide?

 

Abortion: A Defining Issue in 2024

One of the most contentious issues in 2023 was the continuing debate over abortion rights. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, many states passed restrictive abortion laws, while others moved to protect reproductive rights. The Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization decision continues to have a profound impact, with the issue of abortion becoming a central battleground in the 2024 presidential election.

Voters are deeply divided, with many Republicans supporting bans or restrictions on abortion, while Democrats have rallied to protect access. In states like Texas, Florida, and Arizona, abortion restrictions have triggered protests and lawsuits, while in states like California and New York, reproductive rights have been expanded.

The key question for 2024: Will abortion remain a top priority for voters, and how will candidates navigate the increasingly polarized landscape? For many, this issue could determine the outcome of both local and national elections, with both sides mobilizing their bases.

 

The 2024 Election: High Stakes and Divided Parties

The 2024 presidential election is already shaping up to be one of the most significant contests in modern American history. President Joe Biden, while still the presumptive Democratic nominee, faces growing questions about his age, health, and ability to lead the nation for another four years. While Biden has a strong record on infrastructure and pandemic recovery, frustrations over inflation and the lack of significant progress on key issues could present challenges within his own party.

Meanwhile, the Republican Party is grappling with its own internal divisions. Donald Trump remains a central figure, but challenges from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and others could fracture the GOP’s path to the nomination. Will the party rally behind Trump once more, or will they move toward a new generation of leadership?

Key issues in the election will include the economy, healthcare, abortion, and the role of government in tackling climate change, with both parties needing to address voter concerns while managing their internal rifts.

 

Global Affairs: The Israel-Palestine War and Ukraine

2023 was a year of escalating global conflicts. The Israel-Palestine war saw renewed violence, with both sides suffering heavy casualties as attempts at peace broke down. The conflict captured global attention as major powers like the U.S. and European Union struggled to mediate, and humanitarian crises in Gaza and the West Bank worsened. While the Biden administration sought to support Israel, it faced growing pressure at home and abroad to address Palestinian grievances and push for a two-state solution.

At the same time, the Russia-Ukraine war continued to grind on, with the U.S. providing significant military and financial aid to Ukraine. The conflict, now in its second year, showed no signs of resolution, with heavy casualties on both sides and rising geopolitical tensions. Domestically, Americans are divided over continued U.S. involvement, with Republicans increasingly calling for a reduction in aid.

Heading into 2024, the major question remains—how long can the U.S. sustain its involvement in these international conflicts, and how will foreign policy shape the presidential election?

 

Social Issues: Climate Change, LGBTQ+ Rights, and Racial Justice

2023 also saw the continued rise of climate activism, especially among younger Americans. Despite some federal-level victories, real progress on tackling carbon emissions has been slow, frustrating climate advocates. As extreme weather events—floods, wildfires, and heatwaves—become more frequent, the demand for stronger climate action is only intensifying. This could be a major issue in the 2024 election, especially as younger voters make climate change a top priority.

On the social front, LGBTQ+ rights remain a flashpoint in states across the country. Several states passed restrictive legislation targeting transgender rights, sparking protests and lawsuits that will carry over into 2024. Meanwhile, the push for racial justice and policing reform continues, though meaningful reform has been hard to achieve at the national level.

These cultural battles will undoubtedly be front and center in 2024, as candidates grapple with a country that is deeply divided on what the future should look like.

 

Looking Ahead to 2024: The Questions We Must Answer

As we head into the new year, the stakes are clear. 2024 is not just another election year—it’s a moment of reckoning for a nation grappling with its identity, its place in the world, and its future. Will Americans unite behind a leader capable of bridging the political divide, or will polarization deepen further? Can we tackle the looming threats of climate change, healthcare, abortion, and economic inequality, or will these challenges continue to fester? And how will the choices we make in 2024 shape the next generation? The answers to these questions will define not just the next four years, but the future of the United States for decades to come.

 

Stay with CNN for ongoing coverage and in-depth analysis as we dive into the key issues and candidates shaping the road to 2024.

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BIDEN VS. TRUMP II
Q1, 2024

 

WASHINGTON D.C.— In the words of Yogi Berra, "It's like déjà vu all over again."

After less than two months of primary campaigning, President Joe Biden is set to square off with former President Donald Trump in the upcoming presidential election as both parties prepare for a rematch of the 2020 contest.

An outcome that felt equal parts inevitable and unbelievable, Biden vs Trump II presents a myriad of challenges and opportunities for both sides. While Biden has racked up numerous legislative achievements in the last four years, concerns about inflation, border security, and the 46th President's age have dogged his campaign. On the other hand, Trump remains a highly polarizing individual with four criminal trials clouding out any rosy nostalgia for the relatively rosy performance of the economy during his tenure. 

Polling shows that Trump holds a narrow 2% lead over Biden nationwide. This has triggered alarm bells for many in Democratic circles, but others are urging calm. "President Biden knows what he's doing. He beat Trump last time, he'll beat him again in November," Lawrence O'Donnell of MSNBC said. "Just put them on a debate stage and watch what happens."

In spite of these reassurances, most Americans are indifferent or dismayed at the rerun of the last election. "This is not the contest that most Americans wanted. But they are unfortunately the only choices the voters have," Larry J. Sabato said. "A historically controversial former president whose actions and behavior in office landed him in legal trouble. And an aging incumbent whose long list of achievements does not seem to resonate with voters. Sure, each party has its sycophants who are thrilled at the rematch. But most voters are not enthralled."

Indeed, voter enthusiasm remains relatively low for both sides with Republicans holding a small advantage. Among registered voters, Republican enthusiasm stands at 52% while Democrats are hovering at around 43%. "It is concerning for both sides," Donna Brazile said. "Democrats have to find some way to make young people excited about the upcoming election. And Republicans need to make Trump of all people seem like the steady, more agreeable alternative. Good luck to both sides with that."

 Gallup Polling: