Young Voters Voice Concerns Ahead of 2024 Presidential Election
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, a group of young voters is grappling with their choices, reflecting a mix of hope, skepticism, and a desire for change. Many of these voters, who either supported Joe Biden in 2020 or were too young to vote, are now expressing disappointment with the current administration and are searching for a candidate who can address their pressing concerns.
In a recent discussion, participants shared what drives their votes this election cycle. For 19-year-old Angelo from New York, the key issue is “American democracy.” He fears the implications of another Trump presidency, particularly regarding the integrity of elections. Ayshah, a 21-year-old student from Iowa, emphasized the importance of “security,” while 23-year-old Abigail from Virginia highlighted “character” as a crucial factor in her decision-making process.
Since August, these young voters have been engaged in weekly conversations, revealing a shift in their perspectives. Many are disillusioned with Biden’s leadership and are looking for a strong leader who can revitalize the economy, secure borders, and restore America’s standing on the global stage. Their sentiments were echoed during last week’s debate, where many expressed admiration for JD Vance’s performance—until the pivotal moment when he dodged a question about Trump’s loss in the 2020 election.
The aftermath of January 6, 2021, looms large in their minds. Many participants, including Lillian, a 27-year-old digital advertising professional from Virginia who voted for Trump in 2020, expressed deep concern over Trump’s refusal to acknowledge his electoral defeat. “I don’t trust Kamala with our national security or with our economy. But I don’t know if I trust Trump to be a normal person for the next three months,” she said, encapsulating the dilemma faced by many undecided voters.
Interestingly, the group’s concerns seem to tilt more towards Trump than Harris at this juncture. The participants’ views mirror those of 158,000 Republican primary voters in Pennsylvania who favored Nikki Haley over Trump earlier this year. The question remains: how many voters have said “never again” to Trump after January 6, and how will that impact the election outcome?
The debate also sparked discussions about character and leadership. Abigail noted, “I was proud to be an American when I was watching that debate,” highlighting a desire for dignity and respect in political discourse. However, the lingering question of Trump’s character and his handling of the democratic process continues to trouble many.
As the group deliberated on their feelings towards Kamala Harris, the consensus was mixed. While some expressed disappointment in her perceived absence during critical moments, others remained hopeful about her potential as a leader. “I just want to see what she will do,” Ayshah remarked, indicating a desire for Harris to prove herself in the upcoming term.
The conversation also touched on broader issues such as inflation, crime, and immigration, with many participants emphasizing the need for effective policies to address these challenges. “We could talk about women’s health care all day, but at the end of the day, thousands of immigrants are here who have committed crimes against people,” Pierce, a 26-year-old sales professional from North Carolina, stated, reflecting a sentiment shared by others in the group.
As the election draws near, these young voters are weighing their options carefully. Some are leaning towards writing in candidates they feel more aligned with, while others are still deciding between Trump and Harris. The overarching theme is a yearning for a leader who can restore faith in democracy and address the pressing issues facing the nation.
In a political landscape fraught with uncertainty, the voices of these young voters highlight the complexities of the upcoming election. Their concerns about character, democracy, and effective governance will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future of American politics. As they navigate their choices, one thing is clear: the stakes have never been higher, and the desire for change is palpable.
