Democratic candidate Kamala Harris and her Republican counterpart Donald Trump have debated over a number of issues related to American voters in the past few months. And while the two leading candidates dominate airtime, hold regular rallies and interact with voters, there are a few more contenders on the ballot for the 2024 US presidential elections.
Cornel West (Age: 71 | Independent)
Cornel West is one of the notable independent figures. He is an academic and activist, who launched his campaign in June 2023. Initially aiming for the Green Party nomination, West ultimately chose to run as an independent candidate, supported by her running mate Melina Abdullah. West’s campaign has resonated with disillusioned voters, particularly those critical of President Joe Biden’s policies over Israel’s military actions in Gaza. He advocates significant reforms, including a permanent ceasefire in the region, halting military aid to Ukraine, and the establishment of universal healthcare.
Jill Stein (Age: 74 | Green Party)
Another candidate is Jill Stein, who represents the Green Party. Previously a campaign manager for Cornel West, she transitioned to her own campaign after West shifted to an independent campaign. Stein’s platform focuses heavily on environmental issues, calling for more aggressive climate policies than mainstream Democrats have proposed. His advocacy includes ending US support for Israel, providing free public education, and canceling medical debt. Stein has made headlines for her activism, including her recent arrest during protests demanding a ceasefire in Gaza.
Chase Oliver (Age: 39 | Libertarian Party)
Chase Oliver, Libertarian candidate, has joined the candidate pool. A former activist and restaurant worker, Oliver secured his party’s nomination after a competitive convention. He has been critical of both mainstream candidates seeking to simplify immigration procedures and isolate the US from foreign conflicts. His campaign supports drug decriminalization and the abolition of the Federal Reserve.
Claudia de la Cruz (Age: 42 | PSL)
Claudia de la Cruz is running for the 2024 US presidency as the candidate of the Party for Socialism and Liberation (PSL). Born in the South Bronx to Dominican immigrant parents, she works as a community organizer, teacher, and theologian, advocating transformational change through socialism. His key policies include reparations for Black Americans and single-payer healthcare for all. She also supports cutting the US military budget by 90 percent and seizing the 100 largest corporations to promote economic democracy. It also recognizes Native American sovereignty. De la Cruz has ballot access in 19 states and is a registered write-in candidate in 13 states.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. (Age: 70 | Independent)
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. initially made waves in the Democratic primaries but later turned to the independent candidacy. Although he suspended his campaign in August 2024 and endorsed Trump, Kennedy continued to attract attention. His campaign focused on issues such as government spending and foreign interference. On Tuesday, the US Supreme Court rejected a former independent candidate’s petition seeking to remove her name from the ballot in Wisconsin and Michigan for the November 5 election.
