The 2020 United States presidential election was one of the most consequential and fiercely contested in the nation’s history. It saw the incumbent president, Donald Trump, face off against former Vice President Joe Biden. This election, held on November 3, 2020, would determine not only the leadership of the United States but also reflect the deep political divisions in the country. This article delves into the backgrounds of both candidates, their campaigns, the election process, and the outcomes that shaped the political landscape for years to come.
Joe Biden’s Early Life and Political Career
Joe Biden was born on November 20, 1942, in Scranton, Pennsylvania, into a working-class family. His father, Joseph R. Biden Sr., was a car salesman, and his mother, Catherine Eugenia Finnegan Biden, was a homemaker. Biden’s early life was marked by challenges, including a speech impediment that he worked hard to overcome. He went on to study at the University of Delaware, where he earned a degree in history and political science. Later, he graduated from Syracuse University College of Law in 1968.
Biden’s political career began in 1972 when, at just 29 years old, he was elected to the U.S. Senate from Delaware, becoming one of the youngest senators in American history. Tragically, shortly after his election, his wife and daughter died in a car accident, which would shape much of his personal and political journey. Biden served in the Senate for over 30 years and became known for his bipartisan approach and advocacy for the middle class. In 2008, he was chosen by Barack Obama as his running mate, and the pair won the presidency in the general election. Biden served as Vice President of the United States from 2009 to 2017. His tenure was marked by efforts to stabilize the economy after the 2008 financial crisis, implement the Affordable Care Act, and lead international diplomacy efforts.
Donald Trump’s Early Life and Political Rise
Donald Trump, born on June 14, 1946, in Queens, New York, was raised in a wealthy family. His father, Fred Trump, was a prominent real estate developer, and Donald would eventually take over the family business, expanding it into a global empire. Trump earned a degree in economics from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania in 1968. Before entering politics, Trump became a famous businessman and television personality, with his reality TV show The Apprentice propelling him to national fame. He had no previous political experience when he announced his candidacy for president in 2015, running as a Republican. His campaign was marked by controversy and an outsider appeal, promising to “Make America Great Again.” Trump’s populist messaging resonated with many voters who felt left behind by the political establishment. In 2016, against all odds, Trump won the presidency by defeating Hillary Clinton, despite losing the popular vote.
The 2020 Election: A Nation Divided
The 2020 election was set against the backdrop of a global pandemic, the COVID-19 crisis, and widespread social unrest. With the nation grappling with a deadly virus, economic downturn, and protests following the killing of George Floyd, the election became a referendum on how the United States would handle these crises. Biden’s campaign emphasized his experience in government, his calm and empathetic leadership style, and his ability to bring unity to a divided nation. Trump, on the other hand, campaigned on the strength of the economy, claiming that his administration had presided over record job growth and tax cuts. Trump’s approach to the pandemic was heavily criticized, with many feeling he had downplayed its seriousness, while Biden advocated for a more coordinated national response.
The Contrast in Political Styles
The election campaign saw the candidates engage in multiple debates, but it was clear that their political styles were in stark contrast. Biden portrayed himself as the steady, experienced candidate, promising to rebuild the country’s international alliances, improve healthcare access, and address climate change. Trump’s messaging centered on his successes in office, his “America First” policy, and his law-and-order approach, appealing to voters who were concerned about crime and immigration.
Election Night: A Long Road to Victory
In the weeks leading up to the election, tensions were high. Due to the ongoing pandemic, a significant number of Americans voted by mail, which delayed the counting of ballots in several swing states. This led to a prolonged election night, with the final outcome not clear for several days. As the votes were counted, Biden pulled ahead in key battleground states like Pennsylvania, Michigan, and Georgia, and eventually reached the 270 electoral votes needed to win the presidency. Donald Trump, in contrast, claimed victory in the early hours of the morning, even though many states had not finished counting ballots. He and his supporters made baseless claims of voter fraud, but these were largely rejected by the courts and election officials.
Biden’s Victory: A New Era Begins
Biden’s victory was officially confirmed on January 6, 2021, after Congress certified the Electoral College results. Biden won the election with 306 electoral votes to Trump’s 232. He also secured more than 81 million popular votes (51.3%), compared to Trump’s 74 million (46.8%). Biden’s victory was seen as a repudiation of Trump’s leadership style, which many believed had exacerbated divisions within the country.
Joe Biden’s Presidency: The Challenges Ahead
Joe Biden’s first term has been focused on addressing the COVID-19 pandemic, passing a massive economic stimulus package, and reversing many of Trump’s policies. His administration has faced challenges, including rising inflation, global supply chain issues, and tensions over immigration. However, Biden’s approval ratings remained relatively high during the early part of his presidency, aided by the widespread distribution of vaccines and efforts to reopen the economy.
Donald Trump After the Presidency: A Continued Force
Donald Trump, after leaving office, has remained a significant figure in the Republican Party. He has continued to maintain a loyal base of supporters and has been involved in various legal challenges related to his business practices and actions during his presidency. In 2024, it is expected that Trump may once again seek the Republican nomination for president, setting the stage for a potential rematch between him and Biden.
Joe Biden’s Height and Physical Appearance
Joe Biden stands at 6 feet tall (183 cm) and has a lean build. His physical appearance is characterized by his silver hair and facial lines, which reflect the years of experience and wisdom that he has gained throughout his career. Biden’s demeanor is often calm and composed, and his years of service in government have given him a reputation for being a steady hand during turbulent times.
Donald Trump’s Height and Physical Appearance
Donald Trump is 6 feet 3 inches tall (191 cm) and has a stocky build. He is known for his signature hairstyle, often styled in a comb-over fashion, and his tan complexion, which has become part of his public image. Trump’s physical presence is imposing, and he frequently uses his stature and bold style to project an image of strength and authority. Despite his age, Trump remains an energetic and charismatic figure who commands attention at rallies and public appearances.
Joe Biden’s Net Worth As of 2025
As of 2025, Joe Biden’s net worth is estimated to be around $9 million. While Biden’s wealth is modest compared to some other political figures, it comes from book deals, speaking engagements, and his years of public service. He has written several books, including a memoir titled Promise Me, Dad, which chronicled his son Beau Biden’s battle with cancer. Biden’s wealth has grown significantly since his time as vice president, but he has maintained a relatively low-key lifestyle compared to many wealthy political figures.
Donald Trump’s Net Worth As of 2025
In contrast, Donald Trump’s net worth is estimated to be around $2.5 billion. Trump’s wealth is largely derived from his real estate holdings, including hotels, golf courses, and office buildings. His financial empire has been subject to scrutiny, with some of his business ventures facing legal challenges and investigations. Despite this, Trump remains one of the wealthiest and most well-known figures in the world. His brand is synonymous with luxury, and he continues to profit from his name through licensing deals and other business ventures.
The Latest News About Joe Biden and Donald Trump
In recent political news, both Joe Biden and Donald Trump have continued to dominate the headlines. Biden is facing increasing scrutiny over his handling of inflation and rising healthcare costs, which have put a strain on his approval ratings. Meanwhile, Donald Trump remains a force within the Republican Party, with many anticipating a potential 2024 run for the presidency. Trump’s ongoing legal battles, particularly regarding his business practices and his actions following the 2020 election, have added to the drama surrounding his political future. The stage is set for a potential rematch between the two in the upcoming election.
The Future of Joe Biden vs Donald Trump in U.S. Politics
The 2020 U.S. presidential election was a turning point in American history, with Joe Biden and Donald Trump representing two vastly different visions for the country. Biden’s message of unity, healthcare reform, and climate action contrasted sharply with Trump’s focus on economic growth, national security, and a more isolationist foreign policy. The election reflected the deep divisions in American society, and the outcome set the stage for the future of U.S. politics. The ongoing rivalry between Biden and Trump will likely shape the political landscape for years to come, with both figures continuing to exert significant influence on American politics.
A Divided America and the Political Future
In conclusion, the election battle between Joe Biden and Donald Trump in 2020 was more than just a contest for the presidency; it was a reflection of the ideological, cultural, and economic divisions within the United States. As the two figures continue to play pivotal roles in the political discourse, their influence on the future of the country remains immense. Whether Biden’s presidency will continue to deliver on its promises or Trump will rise again as the Republican standard-bearer, only time will tell. The political journey of these two men has shaped a new era in American politics, one that will be studied and remembered for generations.
