With just a few days left until the end of the year, RT recalls the events that made 2012 memorable, with US elections taking the top spot and special election coverage that gave a voice to the third-party candidates via the debate hosted by RT.
Live updates, experts’ opinions, debate coverage and detailed countdown to the US election was available to RT viewers.All the presidential candidates’ profiles were posted online, along with their political beliefs and leanings.Aside from reporting mainstream events, RT gave voice to third-party candidates by hosting its own debate featuring Green Party candidate Jill Stein and Libertarian Party candidate Gary Johnson, along with the Free and Equal Elections Foundation. The two candidates gave their take on international issues and foreign policy. As well as, covering their campaign including the two times Jill Stein was arrested and later released.
Police arrested Stein and her running mate, Cheri Honkala, or the first time after they tried to enter the site of that night’s major presidential debate at Hofstra University. The two were protesting against the exclusion of all but the two major political parties from taking part in the debate. Stein was arrested a second time in Texas while attempting to resupply protesters camping out in trees to oppose the Keystone XL pipeline.
The elections were also marked by voting irregularities and voting machine failures.
Hurricane Sandy’s devastation had an effect on the US elections, followed by fears that it would deter storm victims from voting and extend the election. Sandy caused numerous states to cancel or delay early voting, making it tougher for those who are unable to go to the polling booths on Election Day. The hurricane, which left millions without power and more than 100 dead, has cost the US billions of dollars in damage.
Coverage of polling stations and voting followed, including election line-ups and record waiting times. The presidential race saw huge crowds and voter turnout as high as 80 per cent. The enthusiasm resulted in long lines and several states possibly breaking turnout records. Voters reported waiting as long as seven hours in line at early polling stations in Ohio and Florida. Some even turned around and went home before casting their ballot after being forced to wait outside in the cold for hours.
Finally, an array of expert opinion analyzing election results were given a platform, as well as new ballots being passed, including the Colorado and Washington vote to become first US states to legalize marijuana.