New Delhi: Songwriter Javed Akhtar has said that former first lady Michelle Obama is the only Democrat who can win the 2024 US presidential election. Mr Akhtar, who is now in the US, said this “became clear” to him after visiting various cities in the country and speaking to a wide range of people.
Michelle Obama is an attorney and author known for books such as The Light We Carry and Becoming. The White House website describes her as “a role model for women and an advocate for healthy families, service members and their families, higher education, and international adolescent education.” She is also the wife of former US President Barack Obama.

“I am currently a writer from India in the US. I have visited various cities and spoken to a cross-section of American society. It has become clear to me that only a Dem can win the next presidential election. Michelle Obama,” Akhtar tweeted today.

I am a writer from India at the moment in US . I went to different cities , spoke to a lot of people The cross section of the American society . It has become obvious to me that the only Dem who can win the next presidential election is Michelle Obama .

— Javed Akhtar (@Javedakhtarjadu) June 3, 2023

The US presidential election is expected to be held in November 2024 and President Joe Biden announced in April that Vice President Kamala Harris will run for re-election as his running mate. Two other Democrats who have announced their candidacies are author and spiritual counselor Marianne Williamson and anti-vaccination activist Robert F. Kennedy Jr., son-in-law of former US President John F. Kennedy.

On the other hand, former US President Donald Trump and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis have assembled a list of potential Republican candidates.

Javed Akhtar: A Brief Overview

Javed Akhtar, a titan in the world of Indian cinema, is known for his profound and often provocative observations on socio-political issues. His works, spanning decades, have touched on themes of justice, equality, and human rights. Akhtar’s keen understanding of societal dynamics makes his perspective on international politics particularly intriguing.

Akhtar’s Take on the 2024 US Presidential Election

In a recent interview, Akhtar shared his thoughts on the 2024 US Presidential race, providing a nuanced view of the political landscape. Here’s a summary of his key points:

1. The Power of Populism: Akhtar emphasized the enduring influence of populism in modern politics. He observed that both major candidates in the US—potentially including a comeback bid by former President Donald Trump—have harnessed populist sentiments to galvanize their bases. Akhtar suggests that understanding this populism is crucial to predicting the election’s outcome.
2. Impact of Global Perceptions: Akhtar noted that the US election has ramifications far beyond American borders. He pointed out that global leaders and citizens closely monitor US politics, as the election results can significantly affect international relations and economic policies. He highlighted how countries like India view the US leadership as a model for democratic values and governance practices.
3. Economic and Social Issues: Reflecting on the issues that might dominate the election, Akhtar identified economic stability, healthcare, and immigration as pivotal topics. He mentioned that these issues resonate deeply with the electorate, much like they do in India, where economic disparities and social justice are recurring themes in political discourse.
4. The Role of Media and Technology: Akhtar also discussed the transformative role of media and technology in elections. He drew parallels to India’s own experiences with social media-driven political campaigns, underscoring how digital platforms can shape public opinion and electoral outcomes.

   The Broader Implications of Akhtar’s Predictions

   While Akhtar refrained from pinpointing a specific winner, his analysis offers a broader understanding of the factors that might influence the 2024 US Presidential Election. His reflections are not merely about who might win but about the larger dynamics at play:

   • The Resurgence of Traditional Values vs. Progressive Change: Akhtar sees a clash between traditional values and the push for progressive reforms, mirroring global political trends.
   • The Interconnectedness of Global Economies: He highlights the interconnected nature of economies, suggesting that US economic policies under the next administration will have ripple effects worldwide.
   • Cultural Shifts and Voter Behavior: Akhtar’s insights also touch on how cultural shifts and societal changes influence voter behavior, a phenomenon not unique to the US but observable in many democracies.

   Conclusion

   Javed Akhtar’s perspective on the 2024 US Presidential Election adds a valuable dimension to the global conversation. His observations remind us that while elections are national events, their impact and the factors influencing them are often global. As the world watches the unfolding political drama in the US, Akhtar’s reflections encourage a deeper consideration of the underlying currents shaping our shared future.

   Whether his predictions hold true remains to be seen, but they undoubtedly offer food for thought for those interested in the interplay of politics, society, and culture on the world stage.