Top 10 jaw-dropping political scandals of 2024: A year in review!

The year 2024 was a whirlwind in U.S. politics, filled with legal battles, assassination attempts, and significant victories. Former president Donald Trump made headlines as he became president-elect, setting the stage for a historic return to the White House in January. However, the year was not without its ups and downs for current president Joe Biden, who faced his own share of challenges and surprises along the way. Let’s take a closer look at the news stories that shaped American politics, month by month.

January

1. Trump ordered to pay $83.3 million for defaming E. Jean Carroll
   • In a landmark case, Trump was found liable for defaming writer E. Jean Carroll, resulting in a multi-million dollar judgment against him.
2. Trump wins the Iowa Caucus
   • Trump took a significant step towards securing the Republican presidential nomination by winning the Iowa caucuses.

February

1. Special counsel Robert Hur says no charges should be brought against Biden regarding classified documents
   • Special counsel Robert Hur declined to prosecute Biden for handling classified documents, citing potential risks to national security.
2. McConnell announces he is stepping down as Senate GOP leader
   • Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell announced his resignation from the position he held since 2007, paving the way for a new Senate Majority Leader.

March

1. Supreme Court rules Trump cannot be removed from the ballot in Colorado
   • The Supreme Court ruled in favor of Trump, stating that states cannot decide a candidate’s eligibility for office.
2. Trump secures the 2024 Republican nomination for president
   • Trump officially clinched the Republican nomination for president after winning key primaries.

April

1. Arizona Supreme Court rules that a near-total abortion ban from 1864 is enforceable
   • In a controversial ruling, the Arizona Supreme Court upheld a century-old abortion ban, sparking debate and backlash.
2. Supreme Court hears Trump immunity case
   • The Supreme Court heard arguments regarding Trump’s immunity in a case related to his alleged misconduct as president.

May

1. Arizona Governor signs a bill to allow abortions up to 15 weeks into pregnancy
   • Following a legal battle, Arizona Governor signed a bill to allow abortions up to 15 weeks, amidst ongoing controversy.
2. Trump becomes the first former U.S. president to be convicted of a crime
   • Trump made history by being the first U.S. president to be convicted of a crime, facing 34 felony counts.

June

1. Hunter Biden convicted of three felony counts in Delaware
   • Biden’s son Hunter faced legal troubles, being convicted on three felony charges related to guns and addiction.
2. Biden and Trump face off in debate
   • Biden and Trump participated in a presidential debate, marking a crucial moment in the election cycle.

July

1. Trump shot in Pennsylvania at a campaign rally
   • Trump survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally, leading to increased security measures.
2. Joe Biden drops out of the presidential race
   • In a surprise move, Biden withdrew from the presidential race, reshaping the Democratic landscape.

August

1. RFK Jr. suspends campaign, endorses Trump
   • Robert F. Kennedy Jr. suspended his campaign and endorsed Trump, shifting dynamics in the presidential race.
2. Harris accepts nomination for president
   • Kamala Harris accepted the Democratic nomination for president, making history as the first Black and South Asian woman to be named a major-party nominee.

September

1. Harris and Trump have their first and only debate
   • Harris and Trump clashed in their only debate, highlighting key policy differences and campaign strategies.
2. Second assassination attempt against Trump happens in Florida
   • Trump faced another assassination attempt, underscoring the risks of political violence.

October

1. Jimmy Carter turns 100
   • Former President Jimmy Carter celebrated his 100th birthday, marking a significant milestone for the elder statesman.
2. Vance and Walz have their debate
   • Vice-presidential candidates Vance and Walz participated in a debate, addressing key issues and controversies.

November

1. Trump wins the election
   • Trump secured a decisive victory in the presidential election, defeating Harris and reclaiming the presidency.
2. Special Counsel Jack Smith dismisses the 2020 election interference case
   • Special Counsel Jack Smith dropped charges against Trump in a significant case related to election interference.

December

1. Biden pardons his son Hunter
   • Biden issued a pardon for his son Hunter, citing political influences and intervening in his legal troubles.
2. Biden commutes the sentences of about 1,500 non-violent offenders
   • Biden granted clemency to a large number of non-violent offenders, marking a significant act of executive leniency.

In conclusion, the tumultuous year of 2024 in American politics was defined by legal battles, assassination attempts, and historic victories that reshaped the political landscape. As we reflect on the events that unfolded month by month, it is clear that the direction of the nation and its leadership has been significantly impacted by the unfolding drama of the year.