Foreign Perspectives on the 2020 US Presidential Election and Its Outcomes

Introduction

Throughout the world, the 2020 US presidential election captured the attention not just of Americans, but of people globally. This article provides a foreign perspective on the 2020 US presidential campaign and the election results, focusing on an Australian viewpoint. It will explore key issues that drew international attention, including the choice of candidates, the role of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), the impact of mail-in voting, and the implications of the election results.

The Choice of Candidates

Many foreigners believe the choice of candidates in the 2020 US presidential campaign was less than ideal. The campaign was heavily dominated by older politicians, with figures like Donald Trump (74), Joe Biden (78), Bernie Sanders (79), and Elizabeth Warren (71) all competing. This raised concerns about the dearth of younger and more dynamic leaders in American politics. Foreign observers suggested that the lack of younger candidates demonstrated a critical issue with the pipeline of rising political talent within the United States.

The DNC and Bernie Sanders

Foreign perspectives often noted the significant role played by the Democratic National Committee (DNC) in shaping the 2020 election. Bernie Sanders, who had been the Democratic front-runner, faced criticism from some quarters for alleged DNC interference. This was highlighted by the fact that Bernie Sanders’ campaign was hindered during the North Carolina primary, leading to a sudden surge in support for Joe Biden. The sudden change in momentum without a clear reason was seen as suspicious, raising questions about the integrity of the primary process.

Donald Trump and His Campaign Strategy

Foreigners were intrigued by Donald Trump’s remarkable campaign performance. Despite being a divisive figure, Trump’s ability to annihilate his opponents and secure a strong showing further underscored his political ability and support. This was particularly evident in the primaries, where Mike Bloomberg, a relatively unknown but wealthy candidate, failed to make a significant impact. Nevertheless, Trump faced challenges in the general election, particularly in key battleground states where he lost despite leading in the electoral count.

The Role of Mail-in Voting

A key issue in many foreign perspectives was the extensive use of mail-in voting in the 2020 US presidential election. Some observed that the chaotic handling of mail-in voting procedures led to widespread confusion and concern. Rules were changed hastily, and there were allegations of lax criteria for signature-matching and the acceptance of votes from mobile voting stations. Despite these challenges, Joe Biden emerged victorious in several critical swing states, leading to speculation about the legitimacy of the election results.

The Implications for US Democracy

Foreign observers were deeply divided about the 2020 US election. On one hand, there was admiration for the democratic process, despite the obstacles. On the other hand, many questioned the fairness and transparency of the election. The close result highlighted the fissures within American society and the need for electoral reform, including international election monitoring and a more uniform national voting system. Some also expressed concern about the state of American education, pointing out that both foreign and domestic systems need improvement to ensure a well-informed electorate.

Conclusion

The 2020 US presidential election, as viewed from an international perspective, was both intriguing and concerning. From the choice of candidates to the role of the DNC and the challenges posed by mail-in voting, the election exposed deep-seated issues within the American political system. Moving forward, it is crucial for the United States to address these challenges and ensure that the democratic process remains robust and fair.