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As Donald Trump steps back into the White House, his victory speech has already set the tone for what may be a distinct shift in American foreign policy. “I’m not going to start wars; I’m going to stop wars,” Trump declared, signaling a return to his non-interventionist stance. For global allies and adversaries alike, this proclamation rekindles questions about the United States’ approach to international conflicts, with many watching closely as Trump reiterates his skepticism about U.S. involvement in wars abroad.

Reflecting on his previous term from 2016 to 2020, Trump reminded audiences of his direct approach to diplomacy, recalling his unprecedented summit with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Singapore. This was a time when the U.S. aimed to de-escalate tensions with North Korea through direct negotiations rather than through military engagement. Now, his statement on stopping wars adds fresh layers of anticipation — and anxiety — for nations in current conflict zones.

Ukraine on Edge: Concerns Over Washington’s Support
The unfolding election news is capturing the attention of Ukrainians, who are apprehensive about a potential reduction in U.S. support for their ongoing defense against Russia. While the U.S. has been a critical ally, providing billions in military aid to Kyiv, Trump’s past remarks have often downplayed the need for U.S. involvement, leading some to question the continuity of this support. Former Ukrainian ambassador to the U.S., Oleg Shamshur, stated, “A Trump victory would create grave risks. The situation would be alarming,” expressing Ukraine’s concerns over Trump’s lack of commitment to military backing.

In the wake of Trump’s election win, NATO allies and European supporters of Ukraine are also likely re-evaluating their positions. With Russia’s forces advancing and support for Ukraine appearing tenuous in some quarters, this moment marks a pivotal juncture in transatlantic relationships and broader global security dynamics.

Middle Eastern and European Diplomacy in the Balance
Geopolitical experts also speculate that Trump’s second term could affect ongoing conflicts beyond Ukraine, especially in the Middle East. Trump’s indication that he aims to cease wars could result in shifting alliances and policies in critical areas like Israel, where tensions remain high.

As Trump’s presidency kicks off, his approach will inevitably shape not just America’s foreign policy but also the broader global order. Whether his goal to end wars will manifest in a meaningful shift toward peace or spark new diplomatic challenges remains to be seen. For now, allies and rivals alike are watching with bated breath, preparing for a potentially transformative era in international relations.

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As the 2024 U.S. Presidential Election unfolds, the contest between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris captures national attention. With high-stakes Congressional races also underway, early results from key districts across the country may reveal trends signaling which party is likely to clinch the White House.

On the cusp of Election Day, battleground states are drawing intense scrutiny. Polls have been inconclusive, as evidenced by Sunday’s New York Times/Siena College survey, which found both Trump and Harris in a neck-and-neck race without a clear front-runner. Given the complexities of mail-in voting, some districts may deliver results promptly, while others may take longer to finalize. As a result, early insights from certain districts could shape the trajectory of the race.

Virginia: The Telltale State

Virginia’s 2nd and 7th Congressional districts have drawn particular attention. In the 2nd district, Republican Jen Kiggans faces Democratic contender Missy Cotter Smasal. Meanwhile, the 7th district has seen Democratic incumbent Abigail Spanberger step aside to run for governor, with Eugene Vindman now vying to keep the seat blue against Republican Derrick Anderson. A split in these races would indicate a tight contest, but a sweep by either party could hint at a broader national trend.

Iowa: The Republican Edge?

Iowa’s 1st and 3rd Congressional districts could also serve as bellwethers. Here, Republican incumbents Mariannette Miller-Meeks and Zach Nunn face challenges from Democrats Christina Bohannan and Lanon Baccam, respectively. Traditionally, Iowa has leaned toward Republicans as Election Day nears. Despite a close contest, some Democratic strategists are cautiously optimistic, though wary of Iowa’s historic tendency to favor GOP candidates in the final stretch.

Maine’s 2nd District: Golden’s Critical Race

Democratic Congressman Jared Golden faces a tight race in Maine’s 2nd Congressional district against Republican Austin Theriault. Golden’s moderate approach has kept him competitive in this swing district, but with his closest race to date, his re-election bid could signal Democratic resilience or vulnerability in key regions.

North Carolina: Swinging the Balance

North Carolina’s 1st Congressional district is shaping up to be a critical battle, with Democratic incumbent Don Davis fending off Republican challenger Laurie Buckhout. Recent hurricanes have affected voter mobilization efforts, making this race a particularly complex one to predict. Trump’s team has reallocated significant resources to this district, especially with the hope of increasing voter turnout in Western North Carolina. A win here could bolster Trump’s prospects in the state and beyond.

Nebraska’s Key District

In Nebraska’s 2nd Congressional district, Republican Don Bacon faces Democrat Tony Vargas in a rematch that could determine the balance of power in Congress. With Nebraska’s split electoral votes, this district remains critical for both parties. Democrats are optimistic about Vargas’s chances this cycle, while Republicans argue Bacon’s bipartisan appeal will likely secure his victory.

High-Stakes Showdown in New York

Five critical districts in New York could help shape the House majority. With Republican incumbents Nick LaLota, Anthony D’Esposito, Mike Lawler, Marc Molinaro, and Brandon Williams defending their seats, Democrats are actively pursuing these seats with candidates John Avlon, Laura Gillen, Mondaire Jones, Josh Riley, and John Mannion. Given New York’s significance, a strong Democratic showing could offset losses elsewhere.

Ohio’s Enduring Democratic Presence

Ohio’s 9th and 13th Congressional districts also carry substantial weight in the national context. In the 9th, longtime Democratic Representative Marcy Kaptur faces Republican Derek Merrin, while Democrat Emilia Sykes and Republican Kevin Coughlin face off in the 13th. Democrats remain cautiously optimistic, drawing confidence from favorable internal polling.

A Defining Election

As polls close across the nation, these districts will offer early indicators of where the country stands, potentially hinting at either a Republican resurgence or a Democratic defense. With the outcome hanging in the balance, these key races promise to provide the first signs of who might take charge of the White House in the coming term.

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As the United States gears up for a pivotal election, with Democratic nominee Kamala Harris and Republican candidate Donald Trump vying for the presidency, a complex and varied system of voting awaits the nation. In 2024, nearly 95% of registered voters will utilize paper ballots, marking a significant trend in how Americans express their democratic will. Let’s delve into the intricate organization of U.S. elections, exploring the diverse voting methods and the meticulous counting processes that ensure every vote matters.

The Structure of U.S. Elections: A Decentralized Approach

Unlike many countries that rely on centralized election authorities, the U.S. election system is characterized by its decentralization. The Federal Election Commission (FEC) oversees campaign finance laws but leaves the election process management to individual states and local jurisdictions. This autonomy results in a patchwork of regulations regarding voter eligibility, ballot design, and counting methods, leading to significant variations in how elections are conducted across the nation.

Primary Voting Methods for the 2024 Elections

The upcoming elections will showcase a variety of voting methods, with hand-marked paper ballots leading the way:

1. Hand-Marked Paper Ballots

A whopping 69.9% of voters are expected to mark their choices by hand on paper ballots. This method remains popular due to its simplicity and reliability.

2. Ballot Marking Devices (BMDs)

About 25.1% of voters will utilize Ballot Marking Devices. These electronic systems allow voters to make selections on a screen, printing a paper ballot for verification. Initially introduced under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA), BMDs are designed with accessibility features to assist individuals with disabilities.

3. Direct Recording Electronic (DRE) Systems

Although only around 5% of voters will use Direct Recording Electronic systems—primarily in Louisiana and Nevada—these machines record votes electronically without producing a paper trail. Security concerns have limited their widespread adoption.

The Vote Counting Process: Ensuring Accuracy

The counting of votes in the U.S. is a multi-step process that emphasizes accuracy and transparency:

In-Person Votes

Votes cast in person, whether on Election Day or during early voting, are counted after polls close. Paper ballots are transported to counting centers, while data from digital voting machines is transmitted for processing.

Mail-in Ballots

The handling of mail-in ballots varies by state. While many states begin verifying ballots before Election Day, the counting usually commences on Election Day itself, with results withheld until polls close. States implement signature matching and other verification methods to confirm the legitimacy of each ballot.

Mail-in Ballot Verification

To validate mail-in ballots, every state requires a signature. Some states go further, employing additional verification techniques like witness signatures or notarization, reflecting their individual regulatory frameworks.

Ballot Curing

In states that permit ballot curing, voters can rectify errors (such as mismatched signatures) to ensure their ballots are counted. The deadlines for curing vary, with some states allowing corrections after Election Day and others enforcing pre-deadline corrections.

Provisional Ballots

Provisional ballots come into play when a voter’s eligibility is uncertain. These ballots undergo a verification process before being counted by hand. Additionally, military and overseas ballots, which require extra verification, can also extend the timeline for final counts.

The Electoral College: Deciding the Presidency

The U.S. President is ultimately elected by 538 electors, representing all states and the District of Columbia. Each state’s number of electors corresponds to its population size. Except for Maine and Nebraska, states adhere to a ‘winner-take-all’ system, awarding all electoral votes to the candidate who secures the popular vote within that state. A candidate must garner at least 270 electoral votes to claim the presidency.

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In a revelation that has sent shockwaves across the United States, top security officials have uncovered an intricate and long-standing Iranian cyber-espionage operation aimed at disrupting the 2024 presidential campaign of Republican frontrunner Donald Trump. The indictment of three Iranian hackers, believed to be working on behalf of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), has brought to light the growing threat of foreign interference in US elections. The charges, filed by US federal prosecutors, underscore the seriousness of this cyberwarfare, which also involves key actors from Russia and China.

The indictment details a broad hacking operation that has allegedly spanned several years, with the suspects using advanced techniques like spear-phishing and social engineering to compromise key accounts of US officials and Trump campaign members. While the level of success in these hacking attempts remains unclear, the scope of the operation highlights the lengths foreign powers are willing to go to influence the outcome of the US elections.

Years of Planning, Aimed at Disruption

According to US Attorney General Merrick Garland, the hackers conspired to steal critical information related to Trump’s campaign and send it to media outlets and Biden campaign affiliates in an attempt to sway the electorate. Their efforts have been framed as part of a larger plan to undermine Trump’s 2024 presidential bid, possibly driven by Iran’s desire for revenge over the 2020 assassination of General Qasem Suleimani, a towering figure in Iranian politics.

The hackers’ operations began as early as 2020, with court documents showing increased activity in May 2024. The documents also confirm a strategic focus on individuals directly involved in US campaigns, revealing the far-reaching influence of the IRGC’s cyber espionage unit.

Global Interference: A Growing Concern

Iran isn’t the only country accused of meddling in US politics. Both Russia and China have been implicated in various efforts to influence the election. Reports from Microsoft and Google’s cybersecurity units have also indicated hacking attempts targeting both the Trump and Biden campaigns. While Russia has been accused of supporting Kamala Harris based on public comments by Vladimir Putin, China is alleged to be leveraging its influence to push its global agenda by polarizing American voters.

However, Iran’s actions stand out for their boldness and the clear motive behind them—revenge for Suleimani’s assassination. As Garland noted, “There are few actors in this world that pose as grave a threat to the national security of the United States as does Iran.”

Broader Implications for National Security

This case is just one of many indictments against foreign hackers targeting US institutions, and the scale of the threat continues to grow. The US Treasury Department has taken further steps by sanctioning seven Iranians, including those involved in these attacks, as part of a broader strategy to counter election interference. Iran’s cybersecurity firm, Emennet Pasargad, was also sanctioned for running an online operation that sought to manipulate American voters during the 2020 election.

As the US approaches its next election, this wave of foreign cyber interference raises serious concerns about the security of democratic institutions and the resilience of US infrastructure against external threats. With China and Russia also implicated, it’s clear that global powers are increasingly using cyberwarfare to gain a foothold in the political landscape of the US.

The Battle Ahead

While the full impact of these attacks is still being assessed, the message from the US government remains firm: “The American people, not a foreign power, decide the outcome of our country’s elections,” as Garland emphasized. This case serves as a chilling reminder of the lengths to which hostile actors will go to disrupt the democratic process. As the world watches the lead-up to the 2024 US presidential election, the ongoing battle between cybersecurity forces and foreign hackers is set to be a critical factor shaping the future of American politics.

In a time where cyber threats can alter the course of history, the vigilance of democratic nations will determine how secure the future of elections will be.

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The much-anticipated first presidential debate between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump delivered a political showdown that reverberated across media outlets. The 90-minute debate, hosted by ABC News, provided a stark contrast between the poised, clear messaging of Harris and a more defensive Trump, marking a pivotal moment as both candidates aimed to influence voters ahead of the 2024 election on November 5.

From immigration and abortion rights to foreign policy, the debate covered a range of issues. Yet it was Harris’s calm demeanor and strategic approach that dominated the headlines. For many, the night belonged to her.

Media Consensus: Kamala Harris Dominates

Several major US media outlets quickly weighed in on the debate, with Politico taking a decisive stance: “Harris won the debate — and it wasn’t close.” The outlet praised the vice president for successfully knocking Trump off balance, especially during heated exchanges on immigration and his controversial views. Harris’s ability to remain composed in the face of Trump’s interruptions and jabs was a major talking point.

CNN echoed these sentiments, stating, “Kamala Harris baited Donald Trump for nearly all of the 1 hour and 45 minutes of their first and potentially only debate – and Trump took every bit of it.” Harris’s strategic focus on keeping Trump on the defensive was viewed as one of the key moments that helped define the night.

A Shift in the Dynamic: Trump on the Defensive

Trump is no stranger to presidential debates, having sparred with Joe Biden in a previous election cycle. In contrast to that performance, where Trump was largely viewed as the winner, his encounter with Harris presented a new dynamic. According to The Washington Post, Trump “often strayed from the facts, embracing debunked conspiracy theories,” and appeared rattled by Harris’s clear and focused arguments.

The New York Times also took note of the sharp differences between the two, writing that Harris’s message was “crisp and clear,” while Trump came off as “angry and defensive.”

Fox News Offers a Mixed Take

In a somewhat nuanced analysis, Fox News acknowledged that Harris performed well but also pointed out that the moderators fact-checked Trump’s statements more aggressively than Harris’s, which may have contributed to his apparent frustration. They added, “Trump became more frustrated and divisive as the nearly two-hour debate continued.” This mixed review from Fox provided a broader look at how both candidates navigated the evening’s challenges.

Harris’s Rising Momentum

The media coverage signaled a clear shift in the political landscape, with Harris emerging as a more formidable opponent than Trump might have anticipated. MSNBC was direct in its assessment, declaring the debate a “win” for Harris, further noting how “the vice president looked poised, qualified, and presidential.”

Similarly, USA Today noted that “Donald Trump knocked Joe Biden out of the 2024 presidential race in the last debate, but… found himself repeatedly knocked on his heels” when faced with Harris.

The Road Ahead

As the first—and potentially only—debate between Harris and Trump, the night marked a turning point in the 2024 election narrative. Media analysis underscored a crucial takeaway: Kamala Harris’s rise to the top of the Democratic ticket is not to be underestimated, as she skillfully navigated a difficult debate and emerged victorious in the eyes of many media outlets.

With November 5 on the horizon, this debate may prove to be a defining moment in what is shaping up to be a historic election.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has openly thrown his support behind U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris as the favored presidential candidate for the upcoming 2024 election. This endorsement follows President Joe Biden’s exit from the race in July and comes just as U.S. officials accuse Russia of interfering in the country’s elections once again.

Speaking at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok on September 5, Putin announced, “I told you our favorite, if you can call it that, was the current President Mr. Biden. He was removed from the race, but he recommended all his supporters to support Ms. Harris. So we will do the same. We will support her.” The comments come at a critical moment, heightening tensions between the U.S. and Russia.

Putin’s endorsement is a sharp pivot from previous comments where he appeared to favor Donald Trump. However, in his speech, Putin acknowledged that Harris might take a different approach to U.S.-Russia relations compared to the Republican candidate, stating, “If Ms. Harris is doing well, then maybe she will refrain from actions of this kind,” referring to the sanctions Trump imposed on Russia during his tenure.

U.S. Government Pushes Back on Russian Influence

While Putin publicly picked sides, the Biden administration continues to condemn Russian efforts to meddle in the U.S. electoral process. Just a day before Putin’s remarks, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland revealed details of Russia’s “covert campaign” to influence the upcoming presidential election. The Justice Department even unsealed a 71-page affidavit revealing charges against two Russia-based media employees accused of conspiring to launder money and violate the Federal Agents Registration Act.

National Security Spokesman John Kirby fired back, saying Putin “should just stay out of our elections.” It is evident that U.S. officials are not taking Russia’s latest moves lightly, with ongoing investigations into the country’s alleged creation of fake news sites and propaganda efforts.

A Complex History Between Trump and Putin

Although Donald Trump has been a consistent recipient of Putin’s praise in the past, this recent shift toward Harris raises eyebrows. Previously, the Russian president described Biden as “more experienced, more predictable” than Trump. Even Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, while cautious in assessing Harris’ potential candidacy, pointed out that her actions towards Russia haven’t yet resulted in significant developments, either positively or negatively.

With the U.S. election on the horizon, the backdrop of these geopolitical exchanges is set to add more fuel to an already heated contest. The Kremlin’s recent remarks and the growing concern of Russian interference make the 2024 race even more complex as the world watches closely.

As Russia seemingly casts its vote of confidence for Harris, all eyes are now on how the American electorate will respond to the escalating U.S.-Russia tensions and the political narratives swirling ahead of November 5. One thing is clear: the road to the White House just got a lot more unpredictable.

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In a momentous event that has electrified the 2024 U.S. Presidential race, Vice President Kamala Harris formally accepted the Democratic Party’s nomination for President of the United States. This historic occasion, marked by thunderous applause and emotional resonance, took place at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago’s United Center. With this nomination, Harris stands on the brink of making history as the first woman—and the first person of Indian descent—to potentially lead the nation.

Accepting the nomination, Harris delivered a powerful speech that resonated with the theme of unity, inclusivity, and a vision for a better future. “On behalf of every American, regardless of party, race, gender, or the language your grandmother speaks… I accept your nomination for President of the United States of America,” she declared. Her words were met with an overwhelming wave of support from the audience, symbolizing the deep sense of hope and anticipation that her candidacy brings.

Harris did not shy away from addressing the critical stakes of this election, emphasizing the need to move beyond the divisiveness of the past. She highlighted the opportunity before the nation to “chart a New Way Forward, not as members of any one party or faction, but as Americans.” This call for unity is central to her campaign, as she aims to bridge the gaps that have long polarized the country.

A Stark Warning and a Rallying Cry

In her speech, Harris took aim at her Republican opponent, Donald Trump, warning of the dangers his return to the White House could pose. She described the election as one of the most consequential in the nation’s history, underscoring the potential risks of a Trump presidency without the checks and balances that previously existed. “Just imagine Donald Trump with no guardrails,” Harris cautioned. “He would use the immense powers of the presidency, not to improve your life, but to serve the only client he has ever had… himself.”

Harris’s critique of Trump was both sharp and pointed, as she reminded the nation of the “chaos and calamity” that marked his previous term, including his role in the January 6th Capitol insurrection. She condemned Trump’s actions, stating, “Donald Trump tried to throw away your votes. When he failed, he sent an armed mob to the United States Capitol where they assaulted law enforcement officers.”

A Tribute to Joe Biden and a Vision for the Future

In a heartfelt moment, Harris paid tribute to President Joe Biden, whose leadership and character she praised. “Joe, I am filled with gratitude. Your record is extraordinary as history will show. Your character is inspiring,” she said, acknowledging the significant contributions Biden has made during his presidency. Biden, who had previously given an emotional farewell at the convention, reciprocated the sentiment, expressing pride in Harris and confidence in her ability to lead the nation.

As Harris embarks on this historic journey, she is joined by her running mate, Tim Walz, who has been described as a dynamic leader capable of inspiring the next generation. Together, they represent the future of the Democratic Party—a future that seeks to unite the nation and steer it towards progress and inclusivity.

The 2024 election is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in U.S. history, with Kamala Harris at the forefront of a movement that promises to redefine the nation’s trajectory. Her nomination is more than a personal achievement; it is a symbol of the progress the country has made and the work that still lies ahead. As the race intensifies, all eyes are on Harris as she leads the charge for a more united and equitable America.

The tech industry is bracing for impact as governments around the world intensify their antitrust investigations into major companies like Google, Amazon, and Meta. This latest wave of scrutiny comes as lawmakers seek to curb the power of these tech giants, which have been accused of monopolistic practices and stifling competition.

In the United States, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is reportedly close to filing a new lawsuit against Amazon, accusing the e-commerce giant of unfairly dominating the market. Meanwhile, the European Union is advancing its Digital Markets Act, which aims to impose stricter regulations on “gatekeeper” companies that control essential digital services.

These developments could lead to significant changes in how these companies operate, potentially breaking them up or forcing them to alter their business practices. The tech industry, which has enjoyed relatively light regulation for years, is now facing a pivotal moment. As governments push for more accountability, the future of Big Tech hangs in the balance, with implications that could reshape the digital landscape for years to come.

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In a highly anticipated interview that drew millions of listeners, former President Donald Trump and tech mogul Elon Musk sat down for a candid discussion that quickly became a trending topic across social media. Hosted on Musk’s platform, X (formerly Twitter), the event experienced significant technical issues, delaying the start by 40 minutes. Musk attributed the delay to a “massive” Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attack, although this claim remains unconfirmed.

Despite the glitches, the interview garnered over a million listeners, with Trump kicking off the conversation by congratulating Musk on “breaking every record in the book.” The interview, however, was not without its controversies, as Trump’s remarks on climate change and immigration sparked debates.

Trump’s Climate Change Comments: More Controversy Than Substance

One of the most discussed moments came when Trump mocked concerns about climate change, suggesting that rising ocean levels would lead to “more oceanfront property.” This remark was particularly striking given Musk’s well-known stance on environmental issues. Musk, who previously left Trump’s presidential advisory councils in protest of the U.S. withdrawal from the Paris climate accords, chose not to challenge Trump’s climate change denial during the interview. This silence has led to speculation about Musk’s current position on environmental matters, especially since he has previously stated that “Tesla exists to help reduce the risk of catastrophic climate change.”

Immigration and Assassination: Trump’s Claims Take Center Stage

The conversation also took a dramatic turn when Musk asked Trump about a recent assassination attempt at his Pennsylvania rally. Trump recounted the harrowing experience, claiming that his stance on immigration may have made him a target. In a lighter moment, Trump joked that “illegal immigration saved my life,” referring to a chart he was discussing when shots were fired.

Trump’s Vision for Education: A Department on the Chopping Block

During the interview, Trump reiterated his desire to shut down the Department of Education, arguing that education should be managed at the state level. Musk, who expressed interest in joining a potential Trump administration to help cut government waste, was praised by Trump as “the greatest cutter.”

Technical Issues and Cybersecurity Concerns

The interview’s rocky start due to technical issues led to widespread speculation about the cause. While Musk suggested a DDoS attack was responsible, this has not been verified. The event’s glitches were reminiscent of a similar situation in May 2023 when Florida Governor Ron DeSantis faced issues during his presidential campaign announcement on the same platform.

EU Reacts: Concerns Over Harmful Content

The conversation between Trump and Musk also caught the attention of European regulators. Thierry Breton, the European Union’s commissioner for the internal market, raised concerns about the potential amplification of harmful content following the interview. In response, Trump’s campaign spokesman criticized the EU’s involvement, defending the interview as a matter of free speech.

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India, one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world, faces a daunting challenge as the World Bank projects it will take 75 years for its per capita income to reach a quarter of U.S. income levels if current trends persist. This stark warning was issued as part of the World Bank’s ‘World Development Report 2024,’ which highlights the risks of the “middle income trap” for 108 countries, including India and China.

The Middle-Income Trap and India’s Economic Aspirations

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has set an ambitious vision for India to become a developed economy by 2047, marking the centennial of its independence. However, the World Bank’s report casts a shadow over this vision, suggesting that achieving such a transition in the next 25 years, akin to Korea’s economic miracle, would be extraordinarily challenging.

Indermit Gill, the World Bank’s chief economist, emphasized that many middle-income countries, including India, still rely on outdated economic policies focused primarily on expanding investment. He likened this to “driving a car just in first gear and trying to make it go faster,” warning that without a shift in strategy, these countries are unlikely to achieve the prosperity they aspire to by mid-century.

A Grim Outlook for Middle-Income Economies

According to the World Bank’s analysis, nations like China, India, Brazil, and South Africa face significant hurdles in their quest to join the ranks of high-income countries. Historically, countries tend to hit a “trap” at about 10% of annual U.S. GDP per capita, currently around $8,000. This threshold often marks the point where growth stalls, and only a select few nations have managed to break through it since 1990, often due to unique circumstances like EU integration or the discovery of new natural resources.

The Need for a New Economic Playbook

The World Bank’s report stresses that the traditional playbook for economic development, which relies heavily on investment, is no longer sufficient. Instead, Mr. Gill advocates for a phased approach: starting with a focus on investment, followed by the integration of new technologies from abroad, and finally adopting a balanced strategy that includes investment, technology infusion, and innovation.

This new approach is essential given the myriad challenges facing middle-income countries today, including aging populations, rising debt, geopolitical tensions, and the need for sustainable development. “With growing demographic, ecological, and geopolitical pressures, there is no room for error,” Mr. Gill cautioned.

Conclusion

As India aims to transform itself into a developed economy by 2047, the path ahead is fraught with challenges. The World Bank’s sobering analysis underscores the need for a radical shift in economic strategy to avoid the middle-income trap and achieve long-term prosperity. By embracing a balanced approach that combines investment, technological adoption, and innovation, India and other middle-income countries can hope to overcome these obstacles and secure a brighter economic future.

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Washington D.C., July 21 — In a surprising political move, U.S. President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race, paving the way for Vice President Kamala Harris to become the Democratic candidate of choice. Although it remains unclear whether other senior Democrats will challenge Harris for the party’s nomination, Biden has endorsed her as the preferred candidate.

The India Connection

Kamala Harris, who made history in 2020 as the first Indian-American and African-American woman to become Vice President, now aims to achieve another milestone by running for President. If she secures the Democratic nomination, Harris will be seeking to become the first Indian-American and African-American woman to hold the highest office in the United States.

Harris’s Indian roots trace back to her mother, Shyamala Gopalan Harris, a cancer researcher and civil rights activist from Tamil Nadu. Raised by her single mother, Harris often speaks about the significant influence her Indian heritage has had on her life and values.

Family Ties and Cultural Roots

Kamala Harris’s maternal uncle, Gopalan Balachandran, a former consultant at the Institute of Defence Studies and Analysis (IDSA) in Delhi, and her grandfather, P.V. Gopalan, who worked on refugee rehabilitation in India and later served as an advisor to the Zambian President, have both contributed to her deep connection with India. Her grandfather’s wife, Rajam, was also known for her social work.

Harris’s visits to Chennai, where she immersed her mother’s ashes in the sea according to Hindu traditions, and her fond memories of walks with her grandfather discussing Indian freedom fighters, highlight her strong ties to her Indian heritage.

Celebrating Indian Culture

During her vice-presidential campaign in 2020, Harris often reminisced about her mother’s love for good idli, an Indian dish, and even participated in cooking masala dosas with Indian-origin actor Mindy Kaling. These moments underscored her pride in her Indian roots and her desire to honor her heritage.

A Celebrated Victory

Harris’s ancestral village of Thulasendrapuram in Tamil Nadu celebrated her 2020 victory alongside Biden with traditional festivities, including bursting crackers, distributing sweets, and drawing colorful kolams. Special pujas were performed at the Sri Dharma Sastha Temple to thank the deity for answering their prayers for her success.

As Kamala Harris steps into the spotlight as a potential presidential candidate, her journey reflects a blend of rich cultural heritage and a commitment to public service, drawing inspiration from both her Indian and American identities.

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