As the presidential election rapidly approaches, students at the University are buzzing with opinions and concerns that matter most to them. From immigration policies to women’s reproductive rights, young voters are eager to have their voices heard.
According to CBS, the University is ranked as the 24th most liberal school in the United States, with most of the student body leaning left in their political views. For many, this election marks their first opportunity to vote, and both candidates are eager to attract and secure the Generation Z vote.
Jaxson Douglas, a freshman at the University, said, “I am honestly very excited; this is one of the most pivotal elections. The ramifications are momentous for both sides–no matter where you sit on the fence.”
Many students agreed that there’s a lot at stake in this election, noting that it could be life-changing depending on the outcome of the polls. Every student I interviewed expressed concern regarding the Republican candidate and former president, Donald Trump.
“He wants to strip our justice system; he wants to strip how the country works. He is a criminal, a racist, a homophobic, a sex offender, and that is not something we want to be representing our country,” freshman Samual Hill said.
“I personally feel like he has taken his campaign to the extreme, and his supporters don’t care about what he plans to do. He doesn’t care to address what is really important. He doesn’t care about our economy or abortion; he doesn’t care about fixing ties with other countries. He just wants the title again,” freshman Zoe Yarovikova expressed, “He doesn’t care about anyone but white men. I think his voters take it to the extreme; they idolize [him], but they don’t care for the bad things he has done or said. They don’t care about his policies; they just want him back. They see him as God.”
Yarovikova was not the only student to mention the idolization of Trump; several students noted how his supporters have portrayed or described him as a god-like figure. They highlighted that many of his supporters believe his statements without verifying the facts. A recent incident underscored this issue when Trump accused migrants living in Springfield, Ohio, of eating dogs and cats–a claim that was subsequently proven false. However, Trump’s lies and defamatory statements have caused harm to the Haitian community living in Springfield.
“It is simply incredible the level of bigotry and nazi-like rhetoric [Trump speaks.] Many Haitians have been the subject of hate since the debate; it shows how much influence this man has and how dangerous he really is,” Douglas said.
“He continues to lie even though he is always criticizing people for being factual. Of course, it is inevitable to make a mistake–we are human. But I don’t think his intention is to spread awareness. He will continue to keep the fire fueled, and it is purposeful,” Allyson Nash, a freshman at the University, said.
Many students also express anxiety over the implications of former President Trump’s legal troubles, including his felony charges.
Freshman Jonathan Jones said, “If he ends up winning…it is a little over the law. It’s very hypocritical. With him, it is very confusing how he is able to get through all these loopholes. I’ve never heard of this happening with anybody. A president with a mugshot? If he is our president again, I just don’t know.”
Despite the many concerns with Trump’s reelection, students feel hopeful about the Democratic candidate, Vice President Kamala Harris.
“I strongly align with her ideas. I believe it is very important for her to win. I will just say it: that is who I am voting for. She is the strongest candidate, and as a woman and minority, she is looking out for the greater good…and making America a place for all,” Nash, a freshman, stated, “Even if you are not sure what is for the best, and you are not sure what you align with, she is the wisest candidate. Not just for the Democratic Party, but for everyone.”
“I feel like she is a much better candidate. She is very well-spoken, she seems far more knowledgeable…she seems to care more about the people in this country, especially women and the working class,” said Yarovikova.
Overall, the students at the University feel empowered not only to vote but to have their voices heard finally. With so much at stake, they are focused on the issues that are the most critical to them. Determined to make an impact, they are committed to showing up at the polls and making their voices count.
