As the 2024 U.S. presidential race heats up, the face-off between Republican Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, a Democrat, is one of the most anticipated in modern U.S. political history. Here’s a look at the major events that will shape the race leading up to Inauguration Day in January 2025.
Key Dates Leading to Election Day
Oct. 1: VP Debate Between JD Vance and Tim Walz
On October 1, Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance and Democratic contender Tim Walz will debate. This event, hosted by CBS News, will be a crucial moment to watch as both sides present their cases to the American people.
Nov. 5: Election Day
The big day. On November 5, Americans will head to the polls to decide whether Donald Trump will return to the White House or Kamala Harris will become the first female president in U.S. history.
Post-Election Timeline: Results & Sentencing
Later in November: Election Results
While Election Day is November 5, it could take days for the results to be finalized, especially with mail-in ballots expected to play a major role. A close race might delay knowing the winner.
Nov. 26: Trump Sentencing in Hush Money Case
On November 26, Donald Trump is scheduled to be sentenced in the Manhattan hush money case. This comes after he was found guilty of falsifying documents related to a payment to silence a porn star. Trump denies any wrongdoing.
Key Electoral College Dates
Dec. 17: Electoral College Vote
Electors from each state will meet on December 17 to formally cast their votes for president and vice president, solidifying the election results.
Dec. 25: Deadline for Electoral Votes
By December 25, all electoral votes must be received by the President of the Senate (currently Vice President Kamala Harris) and the U.S. archivist.
Inauguration Events in January 2025
Jan. 6: Electoral College Vote Count
On January 6, 2025, Congress will officially count the Electoral College votes. Vice President Kamala Harris, in her role as President of the Senate, will oversee this process and declare the election winner. This follows new rules under the Electoral Count Reform Act of 2022, making it harder to challenge the results.
Jan. 20: Inauguration Day
The victor of the 2024 election and their vice president will be sworn into office on January 20, 2025, marking the beginning of a new presidential term.
