Biden vs. Trump: 2024 U.S. Election and Its Global Consequences

Biden vs. Trump: 2024 U.S. Election and Its Global Consequences

As the world watches the countdown to the 2024 U.S. presidential election, the stakes couldn’t be higher—not just for Americans, but for global geopolitics at large. The rematch between President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump is not merely a domestic showdown; it’s a referendum on the direction of global leadership in a rapidly changing world. With wars raging in Ukraine and Gaza, tensions mounting in the Indo-Pacific, and the global economy hanging by a thread, the outcome of this election will echo far beyond Washington.

Domestic Divide, Global Ripple

The United States remains deeply polarized. President Biden represents a traditional internationalist view, believing in alliances, multilateralism, and climate action. Trump, on the other hand, champions an "America First" doctrine that questions the value of NATO, criticizes international trade deals, and prefers bilateralism over multilateral frameworks.

If Biden secures re-election, allies expect a continuation of U.S. commitments to Ukraine, NATO, the Indo-Pacific alliance against Chinese expansion, and climate agreements like the Paris Accord. However, a Trump victory could mean drastic changes. From threatening NATO withdrawal to potentially slashing aid to Ukraine, Trump 2.0 could reshape global power balances.

Ukraine War and NATO's Future

Perhaps no region is watching the election more closely than Europe. Biden has consistently supported Ukraine, sending military aid and rallying European allies to stand firm against Russian aggression. Trump, by contrast, has criticized the level of U.S. involvement and even suggested ending the war through rapid negotiation—an idea many view as capitulation to Russia.

A second Trump term could embolden Vladimir Putin, test the resolve of NATO, and possibly fracture the transatlantic alliance that has underpinned Western security since WWII. Countries like Poland and the Baltic states are already preparing contingency plans in case U.S. support weakens under a new Trump administration.

Asia and the China Equation

China is another major player closely monitoring the 2024 election. Biden has kept a hard stance on Beijing, especially concerning trade, human rights, and Taiwan, but he's done so while maintaining diplomatic channels and coordinating with allies like Japan, Australia, and South Korea.

Trump’s approach to China was more confrontational and unilateral. If reelected, Trump might escalate trade wars, withdraw from multilateral Asia-Pacific frameworks, and pursue unpredictable policies regarding Taiwan, which could increase regional instability.

For nations in Southeast Asia, the choice between Biden’s steady hand and Trump’s unpredictability isn’t just about ideology—it’s about survival in a region caught between two superpowers.

The Middle East and U.S. Influence

The ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and shifting Arab alliances add another layer to global anxieties. Biden’s administration has attempted to balance support for Israel while advocating for humanitarian pauses in Gaza. Trump, however, moved the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem and cut funding to Palestinian agencies, showing a much more one-sided approach.

Middle Eastern countries are recalibrating their foreign policies, sensing the possibility of a less engaged or more transactional U.S. under Trump. Biden’s attempts at rebuilding the Iran nuclear deal may vanish if Trump returns, possibly leading to a new era of military brinkmanship.

Climate Change: Progress or Regression

One of the starkest differences between the two candidates lies in climate policy. Biden rejoined the Paris Agreement on his first day in office, investing billions in green energy. Trump, a climate skeptic, had pulled the U.S. out of the agreement during his term and rolled back numerous environmental regulations.

A Trump win in 2024 could derail global climate momentum. Many developing nations depend on U.S. leadership and funding to meet their green energy targets. Without American participation, the fight against climate change risks becoming fragmented and ineffective.

The Global South’s Perspective

From Africa to Latin America, the election is viewed through a lens of opportunity and caution. Under Biden, there's been a modest effort to re-engage with these regions through climate investment, pandemic aid, and trade incentives. Trump’s past term largely overlooked the Global South, focusing instead on reducing foreign aid and tightening immigration policies.

Another Trump presidency might deepen global inequalities, as poorer nations could lose vital American support in health, infrastructure, and trade.

The Battle for Democracy

At the heart of the 2024 election is a deeper ideological battle: democracy vs. authoritarianism. Biden has positioned himself as a defender of democratic norms at home and abroad. Trump, facing multiple legal challenges and known for undermining democratic institutions, is seen by many as a threat to the rule of law.

For authoritarian regimes in China, Russia, or North Korea, a Trump victory might signal a green light for bolder moves. For democracies around the world, it could weaken the U.S.'s moral authority as a beacon of freedom.


---

Conclusion: One Election, Global Stakes

Whether it’s the balance of power in Europe, peace in Asia, or the fate of the climate, the 2024 U.S. election is a global event. The world isn’t just watching—it’s holding its breath. The outcome will shape diploma