The “year of elections” is entering its final stretch, and the contests of 2024 have run the gamut. We saw landslides, charades, and — in democratic and authoritarian settings alike — a fair number of surprises.
Most agree that the biggest election of 2024 is slated for November 5. But before U.S. voters head to the polls, we asked a group of experts what were the most significant elections of the year so far. Here’s what they said.
Maduro Rules Through Repression
The strongman lost in a landslide, and the Venezuelan people are paying the price.
By William J. Dobson
India Remains More Democratic Than Not
For all the warning signs, India held the line after a decade of backsliding.
By Lucan Ahmad Way
Democracy Wins in Senegal
The president wanted to remain in power, but the people’s demands prevailed in the end.
By Rachel Beatty Riedl
France Rallies to Resuscitate the Republic
The French president made a big bet, and the far right lost.
By Dan Slater
The EU Elections Teach a Powerful Lesson
If mainstream parties don’t listen to voters, extremists will be rewarded at the ballot box.
By Sheri Berman
South Africa’s Watershed Election
The ANC lost its majority for the first time, but populist forces were held at bay.
By Peter M. Lewis
Image Credit: Sanchit Khanna/Hindustan Times via Getty Images