Young, Bold, and Voting: Important Things for Young People to Know about the 2024 Voting
By: Elsa Plank
As the 2024 General Election approaches, here are some important guidelines for young Americans to consider. Don’t know where to start? Let’s begin by learning more about deciding which candidates to support.
Making an Informed Decision When Voting:
Do research. What is important to you? Find a candidate that most closely aligns with your values. Consider how each candidate's policies affect you; supporting a candidate who aims to limit your rights would be counterproductive. For instance, if you are a woman, giving your vote to endorse a candidate who outwardly harasses women harms you directly.
Don’t succumb to peer pressure. Obviously, if you agree with what your friends and family think, that’s great. However, once you complete your own research, you can make your own informed decision. Being informed is crucial. The United States is a country where every citizen can express their opinions. So, challenge that one family member at the dinner table and share your opinion; every voice matters!
The Candidates’ Important Policies:
Disclaimer: This is surface level and it is important to research both sides from reliable sources before making a decision!
Let’s dive into the important issues of the 2024 Republican and Democratic candidates. Their stance on these policies will help you make an informed decision.
Donald Trump: This candidate focuses their campaign on several key issues. During his first term, this candidate supported the overturning of Roe v Wade, meaning he desired to limit access to abortions. It is predicted that if he is elected, his policies will further imperil women’s access to this type of healthcare. Former President Trump’s campaign also focuses on limiting immigration from Mexico and South American countries by imposing immigration bans. Finally, he takes a stance that favors non-renewable resources by declaring his plans to increase oil and gas drilling on federal lands such as national parks.
Kamala Harris: Kamala Harris focuses her campaign on human rights and takes a more progressive approach to the presidency. She supports universal access to healthcare, including limiting government interference in a woman’s right to choose regarding abortion. Harris also continues to support immigrant communities in hopes of paving a path that leads to citizenship for undocumented immigrants in the US.
Final note: Although this article was written specifically to help with the general election, these principles apply to any election. It is also especially important for young people to demonstrate their voices in local elections!