For those who haven’t been able to tune in to the latest news regarding the presidential election, have no fear! Your election update – with key summaries – is here.

Let’s start with the presidential debate. On September 10th, Vice President Kamala Harris, who replaced Biden as the Democratic presidential nominee, debated former President Donald Trump. Critical issues of the debate included the economy, healthcare, and immigration, with both candidates highlighting their contrasting policies. Trump emphasized his administration’s achievements and criticized Harris’s stance on crime and border security, in addition to the Biden administration’s economic policies. In response, Harris focused on the need for comprehensive reforms and abortion rights, pointing out the shortcomings of Trump’s policies including his tax plan and his connections to Project 2025.

Moving on to the vice presidential debate, Harris’s running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, met Trump’s vice presidential pick, Ohio Senator JD Vance, on October 1st for their first debate. Vance emphasized tax cuts and deregulation to stimulate economic growth, while Walz advocated for government investment in communities and universal healthcare. In education, Walz called for increased funding for public schools, contrasting with Vance’s support for school choice. Both candidates addressed inflation, with Vance attributing it to Democratic policies and Walz proposing various solutions. They also tackled crime – with Vance highlighting rising rates and Walz advocating for community safety initiatives. Walz stressed the importance of bipartisanship, whereas Vance maintained a more partisan approach. Each candidate tailored their messages to resonate with local voters, sharing personal stories to connect with the audience. Ultimately, the debate underscored the critical stakes of the upcoming election, showcasing contrasting visions for the state’s future and the electorate’s priorities.

The most recent polls are fluctuating. While a Wall Street Journal and CNBC poll from October 22 favored Trump over Harris 47% to 45% and 46% to 46%, respectively, ongoing poll coverage from Tipp shows Harris leading Trump 50% to 47%. The variance in these polls emphasizes the closeness of this election. Ultimately, it will come down to the seven swing states: Michigan, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Arizona, Georgia, and North Carolina.

While Trump leads in Pennsylvania, Arizona, Georgia, and North Carolina, Harris has taken the lead in Michigan, Nevada, and Wisconsin. That being said, polls and odds are constantly changing. What the polls do reinforce is how close this election will be. The stage is set for a nail-biting finish where every vote will count!