Should the US Presidential Election in 2020 Be Postponed?

The recent pandemic has raised questions whether the 2020 presidential election in the United States should be postponed. While President Donald Trump has been advocating for a delay due to the ongoing pandemic, the general consensus is that there are significant legal and political reasons against such an action.

Legality and Obstacles

Despite his position, it is important to note that the legality of postponing the election is questionable. In the United States, presidential elections are constitutionally mandated to occur in November. Any change to this date would require a significant legal process, including an act of Congress. While the courts may play a role in any legal disputes, the current legal framework strongly indicates that a postponement is not permissible.

Political Implications

Support for postponing the election is limited. For instance, former George W. Bush officials have launched a political action committee (PAC) supporting Joe Biden, the Democratic candidate. Additionally, a segment of the Republican party, as exemplified by leaders like Steve Jobs' former work at Apple, has shown a lack of support for Trump's re-election. This suggests that the political landscape may shift in the coming months, making an election delay increasingly unlikely.

Public Opinion and Practicality

Public opinion also plays a critical role. Many individuals, including those who are frustrated with the current political situation, have expressed a desire for the election to proceed without delay. For example, some argue that postponing the election for the sake of managing Trump may be detrimental to the United States. Moreover, the recent mail-in votes in New York and the challenges faced by those seeking school re-openings further emphasize the need for a clear and decisive election process.

Historical Precedents and Resilience

Finally, it’s important to consider historical precedents. The United States has managed to hold important elections during periods of significant turmoil, including the Civil War, both World Wars, the Great Depression, and even during health crises such as the Spanish flu and polio epidemics. Given these precedents, there is no reason why the 2020 presidential election cannot be held successfully.

In conclusion, the current legal, political, and practical considerations strongly indicate that postponing the 2020 US presidential election is not a viable or advisable option. The US has the resources and resilience to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic while ensuring a fair and democratic election process.