US Election Tie: Harris & Trump Rules

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Post on Nov 06, 2024

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A Tie in the US Election: The Unlikely Scenario of Harris and Trump Ruling

The 2024 US presidential election promises to be one of the most fiercely contested in recent history. However, a scenario that many may consider unlikely, but not impossible, is the possibility of a tie. In this highly improbable situation, the fate of the nation could rest on the shoulders of Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, the two figures most likely to be their respective party's running mates.

How Could a Tie Happen?

The Electoral College, with its winner-take-all system in most states, is the key factor in a potential tie. If the two candidates split the electoral votes exactly, with each receiving 270, no one would achieve the required majority. This situation is highly improbable, as it necessitates a near-perfect split of the electoral votes across the country.

The Role of the House of Representatives

In the case of a tie, the 12th Amendment to the US Constitution dictates that the election is decided by the House of Representatives. Each state delegation gets one vote, meaning 26 states would need to agree on a candidate.

The catch? The House is currently controlled by the Republicans, and while Trump is a popular figure within the party, there's no guarantee that he'd be their chosen candidate in a tiebreaker scenario.

The Potential Impact of Harris and Trump as Runners-Up

The prospect of a tie in the election, with Harris and Trump becoming the central figures in the subsequent House vote, presents a fascinating and potentially volatile political landscape.

• Harris: As the incumbent Vice President, Harris would have a significant role in influencing the outcome of the tiebreaker. Her experience in the Senate and her current position as the second-in-command would likely give her a strong voice during this unprecedented situation.
• Trump: Despite his controversial tenure as President, Trump remains a powerful figure in the Republican party. His influence on the House vote could be significant, potentially swaying the outcome in his favor.

What Could Happen?

The outcome of a tie, with Harris and Trump as the deciding factors, is highly unpredictable. It could lead to a protracted political battle, with both parties and their respective leaders engaging in intense lobbying efforts. Ultimately, the House of Representatives would decide the fate of the presidency, and the nation.

Conclusion

While the possibility of a tie in the 2024 US presidential election is extremely unlikely, it remains a scenario worth considering. The prospect of Harris and Trump as the ultimate deciding factors in such a situation highlights the complexities and unpredictable nature of American politics.

This scenario, however improbable, demonstrates the crucial importance of the Electoral College and the House of Representatives in US elections. It also underlines the power of both Harris and Trump within their respective parties and the potential for political upheaval in the event of a tie.