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maltatoday | SUNDAY • 29 SEPTEMBER 2024 4 INTERVIEW US expert Mark Rozell: Election is anyone's game, but Trump may have an advantage WITH a month left until the US pres- idential election, the race between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump is shaping up to be a tight race. As they battle it out for the keys to the White House, the outcome will very likely be decided in a handful of battleground states. To understand the key issues shap- ing the campaign, I sit down with Professor Mark Rozell, founding Dean of the Schar School of Policy and Government at George Mason University. Abortion is one of the strongest is- sues for Harris, as the 2022 Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade remains unpopular. However, Rozell points out that many voters prioritise the economy and inflation over social issues. This could favour Donald Trump, even among those who disagree with his stance on abortion. Other significant issues include immigration, healthcare, education, and climate change, with the state of the economy topping the list of voter concerns. Regarding foreign policy, there are concerns about Trump's unpredicta- bility, particularly his stance on NA- TO and relationships with authori- tarian leaders. Rozell says Trump's previous statements have fuelled fears that he may weaken US alli- ances, but it's unclear whether this is a negotiation tactic or a genuine threat. This election is taking place against the backdrop of escalating conflict in the Middle East, particularly between Israel, Palestine, and now Lebanon. While Jewish Americans traditionally lean Democratic, Trump has gained support among some conservative factions. In contrast, Biden's support among Arab Americans, particular- ly in swing states like Michigan, has declined due to his administration's stance on the Israel-Gaza conflict, which poses challenges for Harris in maintaining strong Democratic sup- port. The rise of political violence and threats against election workers since 2020 is another concern, po- tentially deterring people from par- ticipating in the democratic process. Additionally, celebrity endorsements are seen as largely inconsequential in swaying voter behaviour, despite the excitement they may generate. While Rozell refrains from mak- ing a firm prediction on the election outcome, acknowledging the race is too close to call, he notes the elec- tion will likely hinge on swing states, particularly Pennsylvania. But while Harris has a slight edge in national polls, Trump may have a slight ad- vantage in key battleground states. An expert on American governance and politics, Prof. Mark Rozell from George Mason University speaks to Nicole Meilak about the key issues shaping the US election campaign, and how it is anyone's game as things stand