By Leilah Ortega
Vice President Kamala Harris recently visited College of Southern Nevada to whip the vote of young people in the upcoming 2024 presidential election.
This event helped several students realize the power of the polls.
CSN student Julianna Lee states, “I want to vote because I want my views to be represented in my government. Political issues I’m most concerned about are war, healthcare and homelessness.” She doesn’t resonate with any candidate so far.
CSN student Reece Gianna Del Carmen said, “I’m voting because I want someone in power whose ideologies align with mine.”
Both students are young at 17 years old but plan to register next year before the election.
Some students are not interested in politics.
Edwin Bravo, CSN student, admitted he will most likely not vote next year. He said that non-voters may not be engaged to vote because, “Most of us don’t really want to wait in line or don’t really care to vote.”
It is worth noting that mail-in ballots and early voting are viable options for citizens.
The non-voter mindset is not uncommon among young voters due to a variety of reasons including race, age, gender, income and education levels.
“If younger citizens could keep in mind that their votes count, then there would be more participation,” Del Carmen added her opinion. “Younger people these days are huge advocates for change.”
Jesus DeLeon, a CSN student who attended the Harris event, said, “This election will be difficult than previous, simply due to the fact that an ex-president will be running consecutively.”
Another student Carla Valdez shared her opinion that world events will also be influencing voters. “Our government is dealing with external affairs that many people around this country have different opinions about, so voters will elect politicians who look closely at their views.”
Next year, mobilizing potential voters will remain a motive for the presidential campaigns.
Lee said, “I think encouragement on social media will drive young people to vote.” Discussions with peers about voting issues could also encourage high turn-out rates among college students.
One year to go till the next presidential election and for many Gen Z, it will be their first time voting.
Coyote Student News at the College of Southern Nevada 