While America is currently dealing with a resurgence of the COVID-19 virus with states reopening. In a few months, the 2020 presidential election will be upon us. The U.S. is not only dealing with the virus, but also with a renewed fight over racism and police brutality over the death of George Floyd. The two major parties are being represented by Donald Trump (Republicans) and Joe Biden (Democrats). While both candidates are widely disliked, Americans will have to decide between the lesser of two evils for the presidency.

What to expect in the November 2020 election

This election will be unlike any other, as the pandemic is sure to disrupt the elections in some way. November is vastly approaching, and people will need to focus on what to expect.

Halt for in-person campaigning

Several events that were related to the 2020 presidential elections had to be altered or postponed due to the pandemic. In March, the major-party presidential candidates had to stop in-person campaigning and campaign rallies. Political analysts agreed that the temporary prohibition of traditional campaigning and the effects of the pandemic could have unpredictable effects on the voting populace, and how the election will be conducted.

Tulsa Rally

On June 20th, President Trump held a campaign rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma, despite the continuing concerns over COVID-19. Whether it was health concerns or fear of rioters, the rally’s attendance was far lower than expected; as a result, the rally was widely viewed as a failure. This rally can be used as a cause for concern for any candidate for future rallies. With everything going on in America, hosting a public campaign rally will be a futile effort. While virtual and live-stream rallies are still an option, it will be interesting to see how Americans respond.

Voting amidst COVID-19

Some states have held primary elections, and the scenes consisted of long lines of Americans wearing masks and waiting hours to vote. With a vaccine for COVID-19 not expected till well after the presidential election, the call for mail-in voting has increased. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security Act included money for states to increase mail-in voting. With the resurgence of COVID in recent weeks, it seems unlikely the U.S. will have a handle on the threat of infection by the time November’s elections come. As a result, mail-in voting may be the best option.

As the U.S. continues dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic, its focus will need to turn towards the 2020 presidential elections. While both the candidates are not ideal, the presidency will come down to either Donald Trump or Joe Biden. Due to the threat of COVID spreading, traditional campaign rallies and in-person voting are dangerous. It is hard to predict what effect the pandemic will have on the election; as a result, this election will be unlike any other.